In Episode 25 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss recent news in the world of miles and points, in addition to answering listeners’ questions.
The most recent news includes reduced airport lounge access on Amex Canada premium cards, new rebates on Frugal Flyer, ANA first class availability, and a new promotion from Marriott Bonvoy. The team also covers new Air Canada and Air Serbia routes, a new unique partnership, and more.
They wrap up the episode by answering listener questions about TD credit card applications, roadside assistance, and more.
(00:58) Amex Platinum & Business Platinum (Canada): Lounge Access Changes — Effective Jan 1, 2027
American Express Canada is making a big change regarding airport lounge access on their two most premium cards. Lounge access will shift from “unlimited” to limited visits for Plaza Premium and Priority Pass lounge access, marking a negative shift for frequent travellers in Canada who hold these cards.
- Cards Impacted: American Express Platinum Card & American Express Business Platinum Card
(05:13) American Express Canada Rebates Now Available on Frugal Flyer
Frugal Flyer has officially launched rebates on American Express Canada cards. Starting out with the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card, more cards are expected to follow in the near future.
- Now Available: $125 FlyerFunds on the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card
(06:19) Air Canada Launching U.S. Flights from Billy Bishop (YTZ)
Air Canada is launching four new US-bound routes from Billy Bishop, including flights to Chicago (ORD), Washington (IAD), Boston (BOS), and LaGuardia (LGA).
(08:14) WestJet Increased Baggage Fee & 737 Retrofit
WestJet has increased the fee for checked bags and is currently in the process of retrofitting its 737s to have “fixed recline” seats, unless you are paying for extended comfort. On the plus side, all of these aircraft will now have free and fast WiFi for WestJet Rewards members.
- A Great WestJet Card to Hold: WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard
(11:07) ANA First Class Availability Back on Aeroplan
After a long stretch of unavailability, ANA First Class space is again showing on Aeroplan. While this product has been bookable with other points currencies, having Aeroplan availability for this product is an excellent benefit for Canadians.
(13:36) New Marriott Global Promotions for Bonus Points
Marriott Bonvoy has launched a few promotions where members can earn additional points on their next stays.
(16:14) WestJet Rewards & TELUS Loyalty Partnership
In a surprise and unique partnership, WestJet Rewards and TELUS loyalty accounts can now be linked. Points can be transferred between programs, but the value is murky at best.
(19:05) Porter Airlines 25% Off Award Sale Until November 6th
Porter Airlines is running a 25% off award sale until November 6th. The hosts share some of the best use cases for this sale, provided you already have VIPorter points banked.
- Learn More: VIPorter Loyalty Program
(20:41) Air Canada Bag Buddy
Air Canada’s Bag Buddy looks to humanize the baggage handling experience. Jeff covers how it works in real life, tracking updates, and whether it meaningfully improves the baggage experience.
(22:19) Air Serbia YYZ–BEG Route
The new Toronto (YYZ) to Belgrade (BEG) service from Air Serbia is well worth considering for passengers who are looking to head to Europe in business class in the summer of 2026.
- Similar to: Malaysia Airlines Business Class
(25:19) Rove Miles Launches Hotel Portal That Earns Elite Nights & Points
Rove Miles introduces a booking portal that still earns elite nights and loyalty-eligible credit on chain-hotel stays.
(27:41) Listener Question: TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Application
Stephen asks about applying for the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege card and other potential options, such as upgrades or product switching.
- See More: TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card
(30:35) Listener Question: Aeroplan Status Qualifying Credits with Rocketmiles
Mike asks about earning Aeroplan status qualifying credits (SQC) via Rocketmiles and whether it is still possible.
(31:59) Listener Question: Canadian Tire Triangle World Elite Roadside vs TD Cash Back Visa Infinite Roadside
Mike asks about the Canadian Tire Triangle World Elite Mastercard’s roadside assistance benefit vs the TD Cash Back Visa Infinite roadside benefits.
- Cards Compared: Canadian Tire Triangle World Elite Mastercard & TD Cash Back Visa Infinite Card
(34:17) Listener Question: RBC Product Switching
Maddy asks about the inconsistency in receiving a bonus when product switching a RBC credit card.
- Read More: RBC Product Switching
(35:58) Conclusion
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