When Will the Air Transat Loyalty Program Be Available?

Air Transat has confirmed a launch scheduled for the second half of 2026. No specific date has been communicated, but a more detailed announcement can be expected in spring 2026 with the full terms of the program and associated credit cards.

Which Credit Cards Will Accompany the Air Transat Program?

Desjardins will launch a full range of Visa credit cards in partnership with Air Transat. While details have yet to be announced, we can expect multiple card tiers (such as Basic, Gold, and Platinum) with varying earn rates and benefits, following the model of other Canadian airline programs.

How Will This Program Compare to Aeroplan?

Air Transat will probably not be able to compete with Aeroplan's global scale in the short term. However, it could differentiate itself through: - More ease of use; - A specialized focus on leisure travel; - More accessible immediate benefits; The positioning will likely be complementary rather than directly competitive.

Is WestJet Rewards a Good Benchmark Model for Air Transat?

Absolutely. WestJet has demonstrated that a transparency-focused program can succeed with:- Clear equivalence (1 WestJet dollar = 100 points); - The ability to cover taxes and fees; - Redemptions without availability restrictions; - Simple and direct communication; Air Transat could draw inspiration from this "monetary" approach, which is reassuring for consumers.

How Will BONUSDOLLARS and the Future Air Transat Program Coexist at Desjardins?

This question will be crucial for Desjardins. Several scenarios are possible: - Distinct Programs: BONUSDOLLARS for general purchases, Air Transat for travel; - Partial Integration: Possibility to convert between the two programs; - Card Segmentation: Traditional BONUSDOLLARS cards vs. specialized co-branded Air Transat cards.; The chosen approach will largely determine the success of the integration.

Do Flexible Bank Programs Remain Relevant with This New Program?

Yes, programs like RBC Avion, American Express Membership Rewards, and Scene+ retain their relevance because they offer:- Flexibility: Transfers to multiple partners; - Protection: Less risk associated with rule changes of a single program; - Diversification: Adaptation to changes in your travel habits; They constitute "insurance" in a diversified rewards portfolio.

Should I Wait for the Air Transat Launch or Continue My Current Strategy?

Continue your current strategy until full details are revealed. However: - Monitor the launch offer: Initial bonuses are often the most generous; - Evaluate your habits: If you travel primarily with Air Transat, this program could be very advantageous; - Maintain flexibility: Do not prematurely close off other options; The prudent approach is to evaluate the program once all details are revealed.

What Impact Will This Program Have on Other Existing Programs?

Air Transat's arrival could stimulate innovation among competitors:- Aeroplan: Possible simplification or improvement of basic offers; - WestJet: Strengthening its simplicity positioning; - VIPorter: Acceleration of its development; - Bank Programs: Improvement of travel offers to remain competitive; This increased competition should ultimately benefit Canadian consumers.

Jean-Maximilien Voisine

Jean-Maximilien Voisine is the President and Founder of Milesopedia and a leading expert in rewards programs, credit cards, and travel across Canada, France, and the U.S.A. Now 40 years old and a father of two, he has explored more than 100 countries—many of them alongside his wife Audrey and their children. Specializing in loyalty programs such as Aeroplan, Flying Blue, American Express Membership Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy, Jean-Maximilien helps travellers unlock the full potential of their points and benefits. His mission: empower others to travel better and smarter across North America and Europe.

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