What makes the RBC British Airways Visa Infinite welcome bonus of 60,000 Avios worthwhile?

Avios are one of the most valuable airline currencies in Canada because they unlock short-haul Oneworld redemptions at extremely low rates. For example, a one-way flight under 1,151 miles, such as Montreal to New York or Toronto to Chicago on American Airlines, can be booked for as little as 7,500 Avios in economy. With 60,000 Avios, you can comfortably cover four to eight short-haul redemptions, easily extracting more than $1,000 in equivalent flight value. The taxes and fees on partner flights remain low compared to British Airways' own routes.

How do I earn the British Airways companion voucher on this card?

You unlock the Companion Voucher after spending $30,000 in net retail purchases within a calendar year, which RBC tracks automatically and credits to your British Airways Executive Club account. The voucher allows a second passenger to fly with you on any British Airways revenue or Avios redemption ticket while paying only the taxes and fees portion. On a transatlantic Business Class redemption, the savings can exceed $5,000 per couple. The voucher is valid for 12 months and can be combined with the welcome bonus for premium-cabin trips.

Are Avios easy to use from Canada?

Yes, especially for short and medium-haul Oneworld flights operated by American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, Iberia, and finnair. Booking is done through ba.com using the Reward Flight Finder, and award space tends to be excellent on partner flights versus British Airways' own metal. Long-haul redemptions on BA flights from Canada are usable but carry higher fuel surcharges. Many Milesopedia members use Avios primarily for North American hops, which can deliver redemption values of 3 to 5 cents per Avios, well above any cashback alternative.

Should I get the RBC British Airways Visa Infinite if I never fly British Airways?

Absolutely, because Avios are a partner currency redeemable across the entire Oneworld alliance plus several non-alliance partners like Aer Lingus and Iberia. You can use them for short-haul American Airlines flights within North America, premium-cabin redemptions on Qatar Airways or Cathay Pacific, and even hotel transfers. Combined with the 3 Avios per dollar on British Airways purchases and 2 Avios per dollar on groceries and dining, the card earns enough to keep your Avios balance topped up year-round, even if you never set foot on a British Airways aircraft.