Aeroplan in 2026: Maximize Your Points and Fast-Track Your Progress Towards Aeroplan Elite Status
Loading article…
Aeroplan is evolving in 2026 with a major update: the program is becoming a true rewards system, based entirely on your spending. Every dollar spent on your flights, certain daily purchases, or transactions on an eligible Aeroplan credit card now determines your earning rate and your progress towards Aeroplan Elite Status.
In other words, Aeroplan is no longer just about saving on travel costs. The program now operates as a true rewards engine: every dollar you spend earns you Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) and brings you closer to higher status, while your status then boosts your future earning rate. The higher your status, the more each dollar works for you, unlocking better benefits and a higher quality travel experience, just like an asset that grows in value over time.
For Canadian travellers, this transformation is a golden opportunity. By choosing Air Canada fares wisely, leveraging everyday earning partners, and selecting the right Aeroplan credit card, you can create a powerful engine for earning points sustainably:
- Your spending generates Aeroplan points and SQC
- These SQC bring you closer to a status
- This status gives you access to an Elite points multiplier and other benefits
- Which accelerates your points earning even further
This guide explains the new features and shows you exactly how to maximize your returns, step by step.
A Points Program Entirely Based on Spending
As of 2026, calculating Aeroplan points on flights becomes simple. Your earning depends solely on the amount paid. No more complicated calculations based on distance or percentages related to the booking class.
A member without Aeroplan Elite Status earns 1 Aeroplan point per dollar spent on the base fare and carrier surcharges. Status levels increase this multiplier. Aeroplan Elite 25K Status earns 2 points per dollar, Aeroplan Elite 50K Status earns 4, and Aeroplan Super Elite Status earns 6.
This system benefits those who plan their purchases and allows them to optimize their return on spending by choosing the right fare. Often, a ticket purchased at a slightly more expensive Flex fare yields a much more attractive return, both in points and in progress towards Aeroplan Elite Status.
It therefore becomes relevant to consider your tickets not just as a cost, but as an investment. Certain fares, particularly Flex and Latitude, generate a better return in SQC and points. A difference of 40 or 60 dollars can produce additional SQC and points, equivalent to a double-digit return when converted into free travel or benefits. This is precisely the investor-type approach that Aeroplan makes possible in 2026.
Aeroplan Elite Status Qualifying Credits in 2026
The program introduces a new, straightforward requirement: Status Qualifying Credits (SQC).
A Standard fare grants 2 SQC per dollar spent on the base fare and carrier surcharges. A Flex fare or higher grants 4. Members can therefore precisely estimate how many dollars they will need to achieve Aeroplan Elite Status. This new model allows for precise, predictable, and foreseeable progress.
SQCs can also be earned through select program partners and eligible Aeroplan credit cards, up to an annual cap. This allows you to make progress even if you don’t fly often, which is great news for occasional travellers.
More Motivating Milestone Benefits
Aeroplan is also introducing Milestone Benefits. For every 10,000 SQC (up to 200,000 SQC), and then for every subsequent 20,000 SQC, a member with Aeroplan Elite Status reaches a Milestone.
At the first Milestone, you receive ten eUpgrade credits. Subsequent Milestones offer a choice of benefits: Priority Rewards, points discounts on hotels or car rentals, Maple Leaf Lounge access, or bonus SQCs.
The experience is smoother. Benefits are now received throughout the year, and not only when full Aeroplan Elite Status is achieved.
Maximizing Your Air Canada Flights in 2026
Flights remain the fastest source for earnign SQC. For a Montreal to Paris trip, for example, a round-trip Flex fare is an investment, as it can generate several thousand SQC.
eUpgrade credits, now more accessible thanks to Milestones, have also become more valuable. When used wisely, they let you travel in business class without paying the full fare, especially on high-demand routes to Europe or Asia.
Simple Methods to Maximize Your Flights
- Opt for a Flex fare when the difference is small, to get more SQC. The additional SQC often compensate for the cost difference.
- Plan a major annual trip with a Flex fare. A single long-haul round-trip can represent between 10,000 and 20,000 SQC.
- Take advantage of the many bonus points offers on Air Canada flights to maximize your rewards.
- Use your eUpgrades on long-haul flights for optimal value.
Earning SQC with Everyday Partners
In 2026, Aeroplan transforms your everyday purchases into progress towards Aeroplan Elite Status. Every five points earned with eligible partners yields one SQC, up to a maximum of 25,000 SQC in a calendar year.
Uber, Starbucks, Journie, LCBO, and Marriott Bonvoy automatically contribute once accounts are linked. For a member who does not travel often, this integration can easily represent thousands of SQC each year.
This is one of the simplest ways to advance towards a higher Aeroplan Elite Status without multiplying flights.
You can also earn Aeroplan points at restaurants with DINR Premium, the paid annual membership of Canadian reservation platform DINR. You get 1,000 bonus points in your first paid year, then 100 points per completed reservation. Some purchases made on DINR, such as culinary events, also earn 1 point per dollar. Keep in mind that bonus points don't count toward SQC, and cancelled reservations or no-shows earn nothing.
Aeroplan Credit Cards as a Points Earning Engine in 2026
Aeroplan co-branded credit cards play a key role in the new model. They allow you to earn SQC simply through your everyday spending.
- Aeroplan Reserve credit cards earn 1,000 SQCs for every $5,000 spent.
- Core Aeroplan credit cards earn 1,000 SQCs for every $20,000 spent.
With an annual cap of 25,000 SQC, a member can therefore achieve Aeroplan 25K Status solely through their Aeroplan credit card. To aim higher, the combination of a Aeroplan Reserve credit card plus Flex flights is by far the fastest formula.
Aeroplan Reserve credit cards also offer essential benefits for travellers: access to Maple Leaf Lounges, comprehensive insurance, priority airport benefits, and a better points earning rate, etc.
- Annual fee
- $599
- Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$1,200Total$1,200Plus $500 of bonus paid after the first year, not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
- $1,200
- Welcome offerAfter $7,500 in 3 months
- Up to 85,000 points
Apply Now
on American Express's website
Apply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).
- Annual fee
- $599
- Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$1,300Total$1,300Plus $500 of bonus paid after the first year, not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
- $1,300
- Welcome offerAfter $10,500 in 3 months
- Up to 90,000 points
Apply Now
on American Express's website
Apply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).
- Annual fee
- $599
- Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$2,000Total$2,000Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
- $2,000
- Welcome offerAfter $24,000 in 12 months
- Up to 100,000 points
Apply Now
on TD's website
Creating Synergy Between Flights, Partners, and Cards
One of the most powerful aspects of Aeroplan in 2026 is that it allows for the creation of a fully automated earning stream.
Once your partner accounts are linked, your Aeroplan credit card is set up and connected, and you’ve reached Aeroplan Elite Status, you continuously earn points and SQCs without any extra effort. It’s like passive income in the world of loyalty programs: your everyday spending keeps generating value, even when you’re not travelling.
The program makes achieving Aeroplan Elite Status more accessible than ever. Flights create SQC peaks, partners ensure a constant flow, and Aeroplan credit cards accelerate the entire process.
By combining these three levers, travellers can reduce their expenses, improve their experience, and travel more often. The most effective strategy is to simultaneously activate all three earning channels.
Let’s take a concrete example. A member who regularly earns points with Uber and Starbucks, concentrates all their spending on an Aeroplan Reserve credit card, and books two Flex fare flights per year can achieve Aeroplan 25K Status without excessive effort. Once Aeroplan Elite Status is obtained, their multipliers increase, and their earning rate accelerates automatically.
This is what we aim for: sustainable, automatic, and predictable progression.
Planning an Aeroplan Strategy Tailored to Your Profile in 2026
The best plan depends on your habits.
- Occasional travellers: maximize earning with partners and focus your spending on an eligible Aeroplan credit card.
- Frequent travellers: take advantage of the Elite Points Multiplier to earn more points and choose Flex or Latitude fares for higher SQC returns.
The objective is simple: link your partner accounts, centralize your spending on an eligible Aeroplan credit card, choose the right fare for your flights, and plan your trips during key promotions.
Concrete Strategies to Achieve Aeroplan Elite Status
Here are three simple action plans you can follow, depending on your goals.
Fast Track Strategy to Aeroplan Elite 25K Status
- Centralize all your variable spending on an Aeroplan Reserve credit card
- Link Uber, Starbucks, Journie, and your hotel profiles
- Book at least one Flex flight to earn 4 SQC per dollar
Progressive Strategy Towards Aeroplan 35K Status
- Plan a Business Class flight or several Flex fare flights
- Supplement your SQC with your Aeroplan Reserve credit card
- Choose a Milestone Benefit that will enhance your next trip
Accelerated Strategy Towards Aeroplan 50K Status
- Book two Flex or higher flights at competitive rates
- Book your rental cars and hotels with Aeroplan partners
- Pay all your travel expenses with your Aeroplan Reserve credit card
- Use your eUpgrades for more comfort
For detailed numerical scenarios, consult our guide How to Achieve Aeroplan Elite Status in 2026.
10 Immediate Actions to Maximize Your Aeroplan Return in 2026
- Centralize 100% of your spending on a co-branded Aeroplan credit card (ideally Reserve).
- Link your Uber, Starbucks, Journie, hotel accounts, etc.
- Put all your Uber rides on your card: earn points and SQC
- Plan your next flight and compare Standard vs. Flex to calculate the return on investment in SQC.
- Define an Aeroplan Elite Status goal (25K, 35K, or 50K) and calculate the necessary SQC.
- Note your annual SQC cap via card and create a monthly spending plan.
- Activate your Milestone Benefits when you achieve them once Aeroplan Elite Status is obtained.
- Transfer your recurring purchases (mobile, insurance, subscriptions) to your Aeroplan co-branded credit card.
- Book at least one long-haul flight at a Flex fare or higher to trigger a massive “boost” of SQC.
- Regularly check the Aeroplan Offers page or the Offers tab in the Air Canada app to maximize your points earned.
Keeping Your Status While Travelling Less
Aeroplan Elite Status requalifies every calendar year, based on the Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) earned from January 1 to December 31. As of September 2026, Air Canada sets the following thresholds:
- 25K: 25,000 SQC
- 35K: 35,000 SQC
- 50K: 50,000 SQC
- 75K: 75,000 SQC
- Super Elite: 125,000 SQC
SQC can't be redeemed for rewards: they only count towards status qualification. Your Aeroplan points balance, on the other hand, is what you use to book flights and other rewards. To close a small gap near year-end, compare the cost of each SQC source:
- Flex fare or higher: 4 SQC per dollar on the base fare and carrier surcharges, or $250 for 1,000 SQC
- Standard fare: 2 SQC per dollar, or $500 for 1,000 SQC
- Premium Aeroplan credit card: 1,000 SQC per $5,000 in purchases, up to 25,000 SQC per calendar year, all Aeroplan cards combined
In addition, starting in 2027, the primary cardholder of a premium Aeroplan credit card who holds Aeroplan 25K Status or higher on February 15 receives SQC equal to 10% of the SQC earned the previous year, deposited by March 31. The card must be approved before December 15 of the previous year. For example, 50,000 SQC earned in 2026 gives a 5,000 SQC head start in 2027.
Bottom Line
By adopting a consistent strategy, Aeroplan becomes much more than a simple rewards program in 2026: it’s a value-creation lever that allows for converting essential expenses into tangible travel benefits. By mastering the new rules and judiciously combining flights, partners, and Aeroplan credit cards, everyone can optimize their experience and significantly increase the return on their travel.
- Annual fee
- $599
- Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$1,200Total$1,200Plus $500 of bonus paid after the first year, not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
- $1,200
- Welcome offerAfter $7,500 in 3 months
- Up to 85,000 points
Apply Now
on American Express's website
Apply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).
- Annual fee
- $120
- Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$700Total$700Plus $200 of bonus paid after the first year, not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
- $700
- Welcome offerAfter $7,500 in 6 months
- Up to 45,000 points
Apply Now
on American Express's website
Apply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).
- Annual fee
- $599
- Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$1,300Total$1,300Plus $500 of bonus paid after the first year, not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
- $1,300
- Welcome offerAfter $10,500 in 3 months
- Up to 90,000 points
Apply Now
on American Express's website
Apply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).
- Annual feeNo annual fee the first year
- $0 $89
- Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$400Annual fee rebated$89Total$489Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
- $489
- Welcome offerAfter $1,500 in 3 months
- Up to 20,000 points
Apply Now
on TD's website
- Annual fee
- $599
- Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$2,000Total$2,000Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
- $2,000
- Welcome offerAfter $24,000 in 12 months
- Up to 100,000 points
Apply Now
on TD's website
Featured
- Annual feeNo annual fee the first year
- $0 $139
- Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$1,000Annual fee rebated$139Total$1,139Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
- $1,139
- Welcome offerAfter $12,000 in 12 months
- Up to 50,000 points
Apply Now
on TD's website
What is new in the Aeroplan program in 2026?
In 2026, Aeroplan is transforming its system into a spending-based approach. Every eligible dollar spent on flights, daily purchases, or via an Aeroplan credit card contributes to earning points and SQC and progressing towards Aeroplan Elite Status.
How to Maximize Aeroplan Points with the 2026 Program?
To maximize your Aeroplan points, aim to achieve status. To do this, focus on Flex flights, use an eligible co-branded Aeroplan credit card for your spending, and link your partner accounts like Uber or Starbucks. This synergy increases your Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) and accelerates your progress towards Aeroplan Elite Status, which provides a higher points multiplier on your flights.
What are the benefits of achieving Aeroplan Elite Status?
Achieving Aeroplan Elite Status improves your points multipliers and offers benefits such as eUpgrades, access to Maple Leaf Lounges, and priority rewards. The higher your status, the more motivating benefits and exclusive rewards you receive.
How to Earn Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) with Aeroplan 2026?
You can earn SQC by spending with an eligible co-branded Aeroplan credit card, flying with Air Canada, and making purchases with daily partners like Starbucks. Each purchase actively contributes to your progress towards Aeroplan Elite Status.
Can daily purchases really help me advance towards Aeroplan Elite Status?
Yes, in 2026, your daily purchases with partners like Uber and Starbucks generate SQC that helps you achieve your Aeroplan Elite Status. This integration means that even occasional travellers can benefit from this program by optimizing their spending.