Air Canada will transform its Aeroplan loyalty program to match leading U.S. airlines. Therefore, travelers will now earn rewards based on ticket spending instead of flight distance. This change will begin on January 1, 2026, and it will deliver a fairer and more transparent rewards structure. Moreover, American Airlines, United, and Delta already use this approach, so Air Canada will compete directly with them.
Previously, the program rewarded members based on the miles they flew. However, the new revenue-based system will instead give points for every Canadian dollar spent on base fares. Additionally, taxes and extra fees will not count toward rewards. As a result, higher spending will mean faster rewards, with elite members enjoying multipliers for even greater benefits. Furthermore, these changes will apply to both Air Canada flights and partner airline bookings.
Air Canada will also replace distance thresholds for elite status with clear spending targets. Consequently, Status Qualifying Credits will track progress toward tiers, while purchases on vacation packages or with partner airlines will also contribute. In addition, credit card spending will earn status credits, but the yearly cap will prevent reaching elite levels solely through card use.
This shift will especially benefit premium passengers who purchase business or first-class tickets. Therefore, they will enjoy faster rewards growth under the spending model. Meanwhile, casual travelers may earn fewer points than before, but they will gain a simpler way to track rewards. Likewise, the new structure will encourage more direct spending with Air Canada and its partners.
Ultimately, by adopting a revenue-based model, Air Canada signals its determination to keep pace with global competitors. Thus, this strategic change positions the airline to strengthen loyalty and attract high-value travelers in a highly competitive market.
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