enRoute David, you were one of the pioneer Aeroplan members who joined 40 years ago. What attracted you to the program right from the start?

David Balcon When Aeroplan launched, I joined right away because I was flying frequently between Edmonton and the east for my consulting work. It offered significant benefits for me, especially as I was part of what used to be called the enRoute Club, which provided extra-special treatment for regular customers. Back in the day, we got a little folder with cards, and they would add stickers when we stayed at a hotel or booked a rental car. I still have mine – you could say I’m an archivist. Or a pack rat.

ER Dylan, you joined more recently, but you’re already maximizing your membership. What made you join the program?

Dylan Green A few things attracted me to Aeroplan. First, the seamless integration with Air Canada is incredibly valuable, especially living in Toronto where Air Canada offers direct access to most destinations I need. I also use Aeroplan for both business and personal travel, which allows me to get a lot of value from the program – whether it’s enjoying upgrades and lounges for work trips or redeeming points for personal trips.

ER You have an Aeroplan credit card and have already redeemed points for 80 flights in the past four years. How do you harness your card to earn extra Aeroplan points?

DG I earn most of my points through regular spending with my Aeroplan credit card. The partnerships Aeroplan has with Starbucks, Uber and especially financial institutions, are tremendous. My wife and I also use Aeroplan Family Sharing, which has taken our points-earning to the next level.

ER What have been your most memorable Aeroplan redemptions?

DB My wife and I took a trip to Vienna many years ago. We danced to the Viennese waltz on an outdoor restaurant terrace. Those early redemptions in Europe, like trips to Paris and London, really stand out.

DG For me, it was redeeming my points for business-class flights to Italy for my family. Being able to travel comfortably with my wife and children is the best.

ER What are your go-to Aeroplan tips?

DB Mine is to always check business-class options when redeeming points. Sometimes, due to dynamic pricing, you can find business-class seats for fewer points than economy, especially if you book closer to your travel date.

DG My advice is to really understand the value of your points. Take the time to research and use online resources to ensure you’re getting the best value when redeeming. But also: Don’t save your points for too long — redeem them early and enjoy the benefits.

DB That’s true. I also recommend checking out the online groups on social media platforms. People are generally really helpful, and I’ve made a lot of friendships through them. In fact, I just came back from a ball game with six people. We all met online and we’ve travelled together to different places.

ER It’s safe to say that you’re both Aeroplan pros. Tell us about a time that you helped a friend or family member make the most of the program.

DG I helped my brother-in-law, who had just gained status, navigate the program for a trip to Japan. I coached him through buying a latitude fare and applying eUpgrades, which saved him about 500,000 points round trip. He was thrilled with the experience and the savings.

DB I have a friend who was flying to San Diego for a family event. I helped her find business-class flights for just a few thousand points more than what she was planning to spend on economy. Over the years, I’ve often advised friends and family on how to get the most out of the program.

ER What are your favourite travel souvenirs?

DB It’s hard to pick just one! If you wandered around my apartment, you would see many. Actually, the carved wooden cane that I’m using now is a souvenir that I bought for my father when I was in Pretoria.

DG I brought back some amazing coffee beans from Brazil on a recent trip. Every time I brewed a cup, it was like extending the travel experience.

ER Do you have a dream destination?

DB I’d like to go back to Japan. I’ve always wanted to at least do part of the walk up Mount Fuji. I injured my leg recently, but I hope to visit again once my leg heals. Some of the other Japanese islands are on my list, too.

DG I’m hoping to do a trip to Singapore, Korea and Japan soon. With the new flight options Air Canada offers, it’s a trip I’m really looking forward to.

ER What is your secret travel talent?

DB I’ve always been good at finding deals and opportunities that others might miss. It’s about doing thorough research and planning trips during off-peak times.

DG I’d say my talent lies in maximizing every aspect of my travel, from earning points to booking the best possible flights and accommodations. I plan well in advance to ensure I get the best value for my points. I’ll normally book my leisure trips 350 days in advance.

Explore all the benefits of the Aeroplan program and join now at: aircanada.com/aeroplan.