AIR MILES becomes Blue Rewards: major transformation of BMO’s program in 2026

BMO Blue Rewards
To the point AIR MILES is transforming into Blue Rewards in summer 2026. New partners Porter, Fairmont, Instacart. Automatic transition without loss of value.

After 34 years of existence, AIR MILES is evolving towards a more modern and accessible model, while maintaining a significant position in the Canadian loyalty program market.

What exactly is Blue Rewards?

Blue Rewards represents a complete overhaul of AIR MILES. The program will retain the existing BMO infrastructure while introducing major new features in three key areas:

  • Redesigned digital experience: integrated travel platform and simplified interface
  • Expanded partner network: over 400 existing brands + new strategic partners
  • Enhanced benefits: earning accelerators and improved redemption flexibility
blue rewards

How will the transition unfold for current members?

BMO ensures a seamless transition for all AIR MILES collectors. Here’s what you can expect:

Automatic conversion without loss of value

All AIR MILES will be automatically converted to Blue Points at equivalent value upon the summer 2026 launch. The new equation to remember:

1,500 Blue Points = $10 (for in-store redemptions and e-gift cards)

Thus, knowing that 95 Miles = $10, then 1,000 AIR MILES = 15,789 Blue Points.

This is why AIR MILES Cash Miles and Dream Miles could be combined into a single account at a 1-to-1 ratio.

blue rewards value

Continuity of services

  • BMO AIR MILES Credit Cards: Uninterrupted operation, full details to follow
  • Membership numbers: Retention of existing identifiers
  • Loyalty cards: Physical and digital cards remain active
  • Mobile application: Automatic update to the Blue Rewards interface

New strategic partners: a revolution in offerings

Blue Rewards introduces major partnerships that transform the program’s ecosystem:

Transportation and travel

  • Porter Airlines: Earning and redemption on Canadian and international networks
  • Accor Group: Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, Novotel, SLS Hotels
  • Expedia travel platform: Simplified bookings for flights, hotels, cars

Groceries and daily services

  • Instacart: Grocery delivery and point earning
  • MTY Group: Thai Express, Bâton Rouge, Pizza Delight, Allô! mon Coco, Sushi Shop, Mr. Sub, Manchu Wok, Mucho Burrito, Jugo Juice
  • Existing partners maintained: Over 400 brands including Pharmasave, Global Pet Foods

End of Shell partnership

Important to note: the partnership with Shell Canada will end on May 25, 2026 (March 2, 2026 in Alberta). Members can continue to earn until these dates with their BMO AIR MILES cards. After this date, Shell will operate with Scene+ (learn more about the Scene+ program).

blue rewards partners

Exclusive benefits for BMO clients

Blue Rewards strengthens integration with the BMO ecosystem, offering exclusive benefits:

Earning with debit card

All BMO chequing account holders can opt to earn Blue Rewards on:

  • At any gas station
  • Grocery
  • Warehouse stores
  • Electric vehicle charging

New BMO Blue Rewards Credit Cards

BMO promises revolutionary cards with unique features in Canada:

  • Integrated accelerators: Only Canadian cards with bonus rates on gas, groceries AND warehouse stores
  • Partner accelerators: Improved rates at participating merchants
  • Travel benefits: Lifestyle-inspired benefits for vacations and experiences

A waiting list is open on BMO with the chance to win 1 million Blue Points and an exclusive welcome offer.

blue rewards waiting list

Travel experience transformed by Expedia

Integration with Expedia Group revolutionizes travel bookings:

Blue Rewards Travel Platform

  • Expanded inventory: Access to Expedia’s vast selection
  • Payment flexibility: Blue Points to cover all or part of the total cost
  • Minimum threshold eliminated: No more minimum miles required to book
  • Simplified bookings: Flights, hotels, cars on one platform

Impact on the Canadian competitive landscape

This transformation positions Blue Rewards differently against competitors:

ProgramMain StrengthBlue Rewards Positioning
AeroplanGlobal travel networkSimplicity and everyday value
Scene+Banking flexibility with ScotiaDeepened BMO integration
Amex Membership Rewards PointsPartner transfersEarning on daily purchases
PC OptimumCustomized offersMulti-partner ecosystem

Enhanced program features

Earning by scanning receipts

Blue Rewards retains and enhances the grocery receipt scanning feature, allowing for the earning of Bonus Points at most food retailers and warehouse stores in Canada.

Mobile banking integration

For BMO clients, Blue Rewards integrates directly into the BMO Mobile Banking app and online banking platform, creating a unique unified experience in the Canadian market.

Recommended strategy for members

Immediate actions

  • Continue normal earning: no interruption necessary
  • Sign up for the waiting list: priority access to new BMO cards
  • Maximize Shell before May 2026: last opportunity to earn (afterwards you will need to earn points for your Shell purchases with Scene+)
  • Watch for announcements: new partners to come

Preparation for the transition

  • Inactive accounts: reactivate by earning at least 1 mile before summer 2026
  • Account information: ensure your contact details are up to date
  • Linked cards: confirm the status of your linked Mastercard cards

Conclusion: a logical and necessary evolution

The transformation of AIR MILES into Blue Rewards represents much more than a simple name change. It is a complete modernization towards greater simplicity, flexibility, and everyday value.

With its new strategic partners, its Expedia travel platform, and its enhanced BMO benefits, Blue Rewards positions itself to remain relevant in an increasingly competitive market with programs like Aeroplan, Scene+, and PC Optimum.

This transformation confirms that even the most established loyalty programs must evolve to retain their market share. Summer 2026 will therefore mark the beginning of a new era for one of Canada’s most iconic loyalty programs.

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Jean-Maximilien Voisine
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.
All posts by Jean-Maximilien Voisine

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