Air Transat Launches New Loyalty Program with Desjardins and Visa
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Air Transat is taking a major step in its growth strategy by announcing the launch of a new loyalty program expected in the second half of 2026. This initiative comes from a three-way strategic partnership between the airline, Desjardins Group, and Visa.
A 100% Quebec Partnership Powered by Visa
This partnership marks a turning point for Canadian travellers. By teaming up with Desjardins, a leading Canadian cooperative financial institution, and Visa, a global payment network, Air Transat is leveraging the strengths of three major players to deliver an enhanced experience to its loyal customers.
According to Xavier Szwengler, Vice President of Marketing and Distribution at Transat, this partnership represents « a fundamental lever in our business strategy » that will strengthen customer relationships while creating sustainable value for the company and its investors.
Upcoming Credit Card Options
The program will be based on a new co-branded range of credit cards that will enhance the loyalty experience offered by Air Transat. While specific details have not yet been revealed, Nathalie Larue, Senior Vice President, Personal Services and Associative Life at Mouvement Desjardins, emphasized that the initiative aims to « offer concrete and personalized benefits to members and customers who travel with Air Transat. »
Dan Iwachiw, Vice President and Head of Product at Visa Canada, confirmed that cardholders will enjoy “more travel opportunities, meaningful rewards, and exceptional payment experiences,” all backed by Visa’s secure global network.
The Visa Network Serving Canadian Travellers
Visa will play a key role in this partnership by providing the payment infrastructure. Thanks to its global network, future cardholders will enjoy secure and seamless payments both in Canada and abroad.
By partnering with Desjardins, Air Transat could offer advantageous conversion rates for Quebec and Canadian members. Visa’s presence as a technology partner also suggests seamless transaction integration and possibly exclusive promotional offers on purchases made with the new cards.
Savvy travellers will need to wait a few more months to discover key details: the loyalty tier structure, points earning rates, transfer options to other programs, annual card fees, and exclusive benefits such as airport lounge access or upgrades.
In the Meantime: Maximize Your Travels with These Credit Cards
Although the new Air Transat co-branded credit cards are not yet available, travellers can already maximize their travel rewards with these top-performing cards:
- Desjardins Odyssey Visa Infinite Privilege Card: This premium card represents Desjardins’ excellence in travel. It offers 12 complimentary annual accesses to the Odyssey Lounge at Montreal-Trudeau Airport, 3% in BONUSDOLLARS on travel purchases (up to $25,000), and comprehensive travel insurance up to $5 million.
- Scotia Bank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card: For those who prioritize flexibility with Scene+ points, this card also helps avoid foreign currency conversion fees. The 6 free annual airport lounge accesses and travel medical insurance make it an excellent alternative for diversifying your travel points accumulation strategies.
- National Bank World Elite Mastercard: this card offers up to $150 in travel credit per year, and among the best travel and credit card purchase insurance
| Credit card | Annual fee | Welcome offer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| $395 | |||
| $150 | |||
| $0 |
Conclusion
The launch of this loyalty program marks a significant development for Air Transat and could redefine the options available to Canadian travellers seeking value and flexibility. Partnering with two trusted institutions like Desjardins and Visa signals a strong and competitive offering. Read Jean-Maximilien’s editorial on this topic.
When will the new Air Transat loyalty program be available?
The launch is scheduled for the second half of 2026. Specific details regarding the exact date and registration procedures will be communicated in the coming months.
Will I be able to transfer my points from other programs to the new Air Transat program?
This information has not yet been revealed. Stay tuned for official announcements regarding point transfer or conversion possibilities.
Will I need to be a Desjardins member to benefit from the loyalty program?
Although the partnership is with Desjardins, it is likely that the program will be accessible to all travellers, possibly with enhanced benefits for Desjardins members. Details will be confirmed during the official launch.
Will current Desjardins cards allow you to earn points with Air Transat?
The new Air Transat-Desjardins co-branded cards powered by Visa will be specifically designed for the loyalty program. We will have to await official announcements to know if existing Odyssey cards will offer benefits with the new program.
