Aeroplan Changes How Members Earn Points Toward Elite Status for 2026

by Marsha Mowers August 06, 2025

Aeroplan will be introducing a big shift in how members earn points towards Elite Status beginning January 1, 2026. Aeroplan Points on eligible flights will now be based on dollars spent, versus distance travelled.

At the same time, Air Canada will also launch a new single status qualification metric: Status Qualifying Credits (SQC). SQC will serve as the sole path to attaining Aeroplan Elite Status beginning January 1, 2026 and can be earned through engagement with Aeroplan’s travel and everyday partners, spending on eligible Air Canada flights and Aeroplan credit card purchases.

“Aeroplan has grown into one of the most rewarding and widely used travel loyalty programs,” said Scott O’Leary, Vice President, Loyalty & Product at Air Canada. “Our most engaged members do more than just fly with us—they earn with our partners, choose flexible fares, and carry Aeroplan credit cards. These changes help us better recognize their loyalty and keep improving the experience.”

Key Changes Coming January 1, 2026:

Point accrual based on spend: Members earn a minimum of 1 point per $1 spent on eligible base fares and carrier surcharges (taxes and fees excluded). Elite members will earn 2x to 6x points per dollar depending on status tier.
Frequent bonus offers will help accelerate earnings toward rewards.
Status Qualifying Credits (SQC):
- Earn up to 4 SQC per dollar spent, depending on fare class.
- Accumulate up to 25,000 SQC annually via Aeroplan credit card usage.
- Earn an additional 25,000 SQC through partner activity.
Milestone Rewards unlocked every 10,000 SQC, including perks like bonus credits and Status Passes.
Starting in 2027, premium Aeroplan credit cardholders who qualify for Elite status will get a 10% SQC head start based on the prior year’s activity.

What’s Staying the Same

Status qualification for the 2026 program year remains unchanged through the end of 2025.
Core benefits for Elite members (priority services, checked baggage, etc.) remain part of the program.

Aeroplan says the updates signal a move toward greater flexibility and personalization, offering travel advisors, corporate travel managers, and loyalty professionals more tools to engage high-value clients.

For full program details, visit: aircanada.com/acearn2026 aircanada.com/elite2026