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How the Transformed Aeroplan Fits Into Your Everyday Life

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When you get the rare opportunity to design a loyalty program from the ground up, you want the people who work on it to get excited about the tiniest details, and even nerd out a little. Luckily, Aeroplan has an in–house group of experts keen to take on the task: “We’re a team of loyalty geeks ourselves,” says Scott O’Leary, Air Canada’s Managing Director of Loyalty Planning and Development. “Making it super easy to earn and redeem your points is religion for us.”

The group quickly grasped the need to go back to basics: Remember the original loyalty programs from 30 years ago, when earning and redeeming points involved pretty elementary math? That’s why the transformed Aeroplan offers simple features like predictable pricing, with realistic ranges of points you will likely need for a flight reward, and the ability to book every Air Canada seat, in every cabin class, with points. But beyond the importance of simplicity, one of the ultimate goals was to make the transformed Aeroplan fit people’s lives even when they’re not travelling.

December 11, 2020
An illustration of products redeemed using Aeroplan points

“When we spoke to consumers, they highlighted everyday relevance as the one thing they wanted to see more of in Aeroplan,” explains O’Leary. “This is what would set Aeroplan apart from all other travel programs.” To deliver on that promise, the team built in more opportunities for members to earn and redeem points and be rewarded for things they’re already doing – like shopping for essentials.

The number one way that Aeroplan is accomplishing daily engagement is through its all–new suite of credit cards, co–branded with TD, American Express and CIBC. “This is the fastest and easiest way to earn Aeroplan points through your everyday activities,” says O’Leary. Simply using your Aeroplan credit card means earning points that can then be redeemed for travel and many other exciting purchases, from homewares to electronics to experiences. Not only can members earn points for every dollar spent on an Aeroplan credit card, but in many cases, they’ll earn extra for certain day–to–day categories (like dining, groceries and gas).

“When we spoke to consumers, they highlighted everyday relevance as the one thing they wanted to see more of in Aeroplan.”

Next year, members can also expect the rollout of some exciting new partnerships designed to make it even easier to earn, while also making Aeroplan membership something that enhances members’ daily lives. “Expanding Aeroplan’s reach to include well–loved everyday brands that are important to our members is a first priority for us,” says O’Leary, noting that benefits will go beyond being able to earn points. “In many cases, we want you to also be able to redeem points and earn other benefits.”

While the features announced to date with the reimagined Aeroplan are game–changing, there’s much more to anticipate. “The Aeroplan that launched in November represents a fraction of the features we intend to offer in this program,” O’Leary reveals. “This is really just the beginning.”

Five Ways to Earn More on the Aeroplan eStore

  • Earn all the time — Receive at least 1 point per $1 spent. Just log into the Aeroplan eStore and select your favourite brand to be redirected to their site.

  • Redeem points — Use your points on the Aeroplan eStore to buy select products or a gift card – traditional or virtual, it’s your choice.

  • Play the bonus game — This holiday season, for example, check out the Boxing Week sale and redeem fewer points to get selected gift cards.

  • Get extras with Aeroplan Elite Status — You will get an extra 2 points per $1 spent when you start shopping on the Aeroplan eStore.

  • Earn points twice — With an Aeroplan credit card, you will rack up points twice each time you shop: once for starting on the eStore and once for using an Aeroplan credit card.
     

To browse the new Aeroplan eStore and start shopping, visit aircanada.com/aeroplanestore.

3 Ways to Upgrade Your Travels with an Aeroplan Credit Card

  1. Earn points quickly on your everyday purchases – in the Aeroplan eStore and anywhere else you buy.

  2. Get access to exclusive Air Canada benefits to make your next Air Canada travel experience even better.

  3. Earn more points with a higher multiplier for purchases you make directly with Air Canada, including Air Canada Vacations, or on the Air Canada app.

An illustration of an Aeroplan credit card making a tap payment

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How can I earn faster? With Aeroplan credit cards and popular retail partners, you will earn more points, more quickly, on your day–to–day shopping.

  • Will I earn points on any Air Canada flight I book? Earning points on flights is now simpler. Earn Aeroplan points on every Air Canada flight you book in cash at aircanada.com or on the app.

  • Are there other ways to earn while travelling? With Aeroplan’s many travel partners, earning doesn’t stop at the airport. You can earn points on eligible transactions with hotels, car rentals, partner airlines, airport parking and more.

Redeem Your Points for Life’s Necessities

  • Travel & Getaways — Now you can redeem for trips without visiting a separate website – book with points at aircanada.com or on the Air Canada app.

  • Electronics — The improved Aeroplan eStore features exciting gadgets from leading brands, and you can get them all with points.

  • Gift Cards & More — Whether you’re looking for the ideal gift (from merchandise to experiences) or the perfect gift card, Aeroplan has you covered.
     

Learn more about redeeming your points at aircanada.com/redeem.