In Episode 22 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss the recently announced changes to the Air Canada Aeroplan program.
From modifications in earning and redeeming Aeroplan points to the introduction of Status Qualifying Credits (SQCs), the hosts delve into how these updates will impact frequent flyers in the Aeroplan program. They also discuss the ability to work towards status via credit card spending and through partnerships with everyday brands like Starbucks and Avis.
Finally, they review the changes to Aeroplan elite status benefits, including eUpgrades and Priority Rewards. Throughout this episode, the hosts provide an insightful analysis for both frequent and casual Aeroplan users, highlighting the pros and cons of the new program.
(01:04) The Aeroplan Program is Changing in 2026
Aeroplan has released details about several changes that are coming for the program in January 2026, including how elite status is earned and how Aeroplan points are earned on revenue fares.
(04:15) Earning Aeroplan Points on Fares & Comparison To Other Frequent Flyer Programs
Aeroplan members will now earn points at a base rate of 1 point per dollar spent on an eligible fare, with accelerators for those who hold elite status. How does this earning change hold up to other frequent flyer programs in North America?
(12:50) Earning Aeroplan Points Under New vs. Old Program – Examples
So, how greatly does the Aeroplan point earning rate differ? The team works through some examples to highlight some of the disparities in Aeroplan point earning on revenue fares for those who have status and for those who do not.
(22:11) Changes in Earning Aeroplan Elite Status
SQM, SQD, AND SQS are no longer, and the only metric you need to be aware of is Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) when it comes to qualifying for Aeroplan elite status.
- Calculate Aeroplan Points & SQC Earnings: AC SQC/Points Calculator
(25:43) Earning SQCs Through Credit Card Spending
SQCs can be earned through spending on Aeroplan co-branded credit cards. On premium Aeroplan credit cards, cardholders will earn 1,000 SQC for every $5,000 spent, and on core Aeroplan credit cards, cardholders will earn 1,000 SQC for every $20,000 spent. Aeroplan members can earn up to a total of 25,000 SQC per year from spending.
(28:50) Earning SQCs Through Travel & Everyday Partners
Another 25,000 SQCs are up for grabs from travel and everyday partners, but this does not include the Aeroplan eStore. With partners like Starbucks, Uber, and the LCBO, it will be hard to earn SQCs in any meaningful amount through this avenue.
(34:16) Rocket Miles: A Quick Way to Earn SQCs
Booking hotel stays through Rocket Miles can be a quicker way to earn a meaningful amount of SQCs, as some hotels can offer 20-30x on an eligible booking.
(36:15) Changes to Aeroplan Elite Status Benefits
In addition to the changes to earning Aeroplan elite status, there are a few key changes to the benefits that can be received from earning elite status.
- Learn More: Aeroplan Priority Rewards
- Learn More: Intro to eUpgrades & eUpgrades Comprehensive Guide
(44:47) Final Thoughts on the New Aeroplan Program
So are the changes to the Aeroplan program positive, negative, or somewhere in the middle?
(48:15) Conclusion
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Join us for the next episode, where the Frugal Flyer team recaps all of the recent miles and points news, in addition to answering a few readers’ questions.
Listen to Miles Ahead: Episode 23 – Miles & Points News + Listener Questions.