Aeroplan Elite Status: Guide to Qualifying and Privileges

Aeroplan Elite Status is Air Canada’s elite program for its most frequent flyers. There are many opportunities to earn and benefit from status, which can help to make your travels more seamless.

Having a thorough understanding of the program will benefit you greatly, whether you’re seeking to earn Aeroplan Elite Status or maximize it. 

This post will guide you through the elite program, how to qualify for Aeroplan Elite Status, and the privileges that come with each tier.

How to Qualify for Aeroplan Elite Status

Qualifying for Aeroplan Elite Status depends on three factors:

  • Status Qualifying Miles (SQM)
  • Status Qualifying Segments (SQS)
  • Status Qualifying Dollars (SQD)

You reach the various status tiers by reaching minimum levels of SQM or SQS, in addition to SQD, through your paid flying activity. 

Status Qualifying Miles

SQM are earned as a percentage of the actual distance flown and on the fare purchased. The destination to which you fly (within Canada, United States, Sun Destinations, or International) also plays a small role in the SQM earned.

For example, if you fly from Vancouver to Toronto on a Flex fare, which earns 100% SQM, you’d earn 2,085 Status Qualifying Miles. If you booked a Premium Economy (Lowest) fare, you’d earn 2,606 SQM, which is 125% of the distance flown.

Earning status through SQM often is easier for those who tend to fly longer distances. 

(The amount of Aeroplan points you earn on a flight largely mirrors the amount of SQM earned, although it’s important to point out that these are two very different things.)

Status Qualifying Segments

SQS are determined by the amount of actual flight segments you have on a particular booking. For example, if you fly from St. John’s to Toronto on a direct flight, you earn 1 SQS, but if you were to fly via Montreal, you would earn 2 SQS. In some cases, it can be worthwhile to book milk-run routes in order to earn more SQS. 

Qualifying for status through SQS can be easier for people who tend to fly more short-haul flights, or for those who always require a connecting flight to a major airport hub to get to their destination.

For both SQM and SQS, you are able to boost your earnings with an eligible co-branded credit card: you’ll earn 1,000 SQM and 1 SQS for every $5,000 spent on a premium Aeroplan credit card or every $10,000 spent on a core or small business Aeroplan credit card.

If you tend to be a big spender, you’ll therefore be rewarded with easier qualification for Aeroplan Elite Status if you put your spending on a co-branded credit card. 

Status Qualifying Dollars

SQD are earned based on the amount of base fare and carrier-imposed surcharges paid for your flight. You can also earn SQD on Star Alliance airlines ticketed on Air Canada 014 stock, Flight Pass purchases, and on eUpgrade add-on fees.

SQD are posted after the date flown, not on the date of purchase. There is currently no other way to earn SQD (e.g., through credit card spending) other than by spending it on flights.

Status Requirements

There are five Aeroplan Elite Status tiers: 25K, 35K, 50K, 75K, and Super Elite. To obtain status, you need to fulfill either the SQM or SQS requirements, in addition to the corresponding SQD requirement, in a calendar year. 

For example, to reach Aeroplan 35K status, you need to either obtain 35,000 SQM or 35 SQS in a calendar year, as well as reach a minimum SQD of $4,000. This all needs to happen between January 1 and December 31 to qualify for status.

Everyday Status Qualification

The Everyday Status Qualification feature allows you to earn Aeroplan 25K status without ever having set foot on a plane.

If you earn 100,000 Aeroplan points in a calendar year through eligible sources, you’ll receive Aeroplan 25K status. 

Eligible sources include the points you earn from spending on a co-branded Aeroplan credit card, flying with Air Canada and partner airlines, and earning through travel and retail partners such as the Aeroplan eStore.

However, credit card welcome bonuses and points transfers from other programs do not count towards Everyday Status Qualification. 

Chase Aeroplan Card + Elite Status Level Up

The introduction of the US-issued Chase Aeroplan Card brings a new angle to earning and levelling up your Aeroplan Elite Status strategy.

Upon signing up for the card, Aeroplan members will automatically receive Aeroplan 25K status through the next calendar year.

Moreover, after the first year(s) of instant 25K status, cardholders are able to retain 25K status every year by spending $15,000 (USD) on the Chase Aeroplan Card during a single calendar year. 

Cardholders can also earn an “Elite Status Level Up” to Aeroplan 35K status or higher upon spending $50,000 (USD) in the calendar year. 

The Elite Status Level Up takes into consideration whatever status level you’ve organically earned during the year of hitting the $50,000 (USD) spending threshold. Then, as of January 1 and through December 31 of the following year, your status will be bumped up one level higher.

Status Period

Once you have reached Aeroplan Elite Status for a given year, you will enjoy it through to the end of the next calendar year.

For example, if you qualify for Aeroplan 50K status in August 2021, you’ll enjoy the status benefits through to December 31, 2022. 

Note that eUpgrades have a validity period until mid-January. If you have confirmed an eUpgrade in the first couple of weeks of the new year, but haven’t renewed your status for that year, the eUpgrade still remains valid. 

Core Privileges and Select Privileges

Now that we have explored how to qualify for Aeroplan Elite Status, let’s explore what you get for all of your hard work. There are two sets of perks that are available to Aeroplan Elite Status members: Core Privileges and Select Privileges.

Core Privileges do not need to be selected. Depending on the tier that you reach, you are automatically afforded a range of perks. The full range of Core Privileges can be found on the Aeroplan Elite Status page, and the main ones will be highlighted in the discussion below.

Select Privileges, however, are bundles of options that must be selected by each Aeroplan Elite Status member once per year. There are two sets of bundles to choose from, with Bundle 1 having a broader range of benefits and Bundle 2 pertaining to Flight Pass activity only. For this article, I won’t be discussing Bundle 2 in detail.

Select Privileges must be chosen by December 31 each year. To choose them, login to your Aeroplan account, select the “Benefits” tab, and then proceed with your selections. If you neglect to select them by the deadline, you will forfeit them for the remainder of the benefit validity period.

Aeroplan 25K

The lowest status tier, Aeroplan 25K, is reached by earning either 25,000 SQM or 25 SQS, as well as a minimum of $3,000 SQD in a calendar year. While the range of perks is limited as compared to higher tiers, there is definitely value to be found, especially since you can reach this tier without flying at all.

Beginning with this level, you’ll enjoy a number of priority services with Air Canada: front-of-the-line call centre access, the ability to select seats at the front of the economy cabin, a separate check-in at the airport, and boarding the plane before most people.

Further, if a flight is full, you’ll have priority standby over others without status if you have purchased an eligible fare. 

You’ll also enjoy two free 23kg checked bags on Air Canada flights and complimentary handling of your sports equipment. So, for your winter ski trips or your summer cycling or surfing trips, you won’t have to shell out extra money to bring your beloved gear with you.

20 eUpgrades will automatically be deposited into your account to upgrade to a higher class of service on a booking. We have written extensively about this complex program, and I encourage you to review the information to maximize the value you can get from them.

If you earn a Priority Reward, it will be valid for use on economy class bookings in Canada and the United States.

You’ll also get Star Alliance Silver status. This extends your priority reservations waitlist and priority airport standby benefits to other Star Alliance partners, but doesn’t really offer much else.

For Select Privileges, Aeroplan Elite 25K members have the option of choosing two of the following from Bundle 1: 

  • 25% bonus Aeroplan points with Air Canada and select airline partners
  • 5 additional eUpgrade credits
  • 2 Maple Leaf Lounge one-time guest passes

From these, I consider the best options to be the 25% bonus Aeroplan points and the five eUpgrade credits. If you neither travel often nor hold a credit card that offers free lounge access, the Maple Leaf Lounge passes could be a worth considering.

Aeroplan 35K

Aeroplan 35K is reached when you obtain 35,000 SQM or 35 SQS, as well as a minimum of $4,000 SQD in a calendar year. In addition to the aforementioned Core Privileges for 25K, there are a few additional perks that come with 35K.

At this level, members enjoy priority security clearance via dedicated lanes in many airports worldwide. While this can also be obtained with a business class ticket or by holding a premium credit card, it can be a very useful perk when flying during peak travel season or in providing a streamlined travel experience.

Until May 31, 2023, Aeroplan 35K members will enjoy unlimited complimentary access to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges for domestic and transborder travel to the United States in any class of service. As of June 1, 2023, this benefit will no longer be offered, so you may need to pick up a credit card that gives you lounge access. 

Two one-time Maple Leaf Lounge passes are also deposited to your Aeroplan account, and these may be transferred to anyone of your choosing.

Your complimentary baggage allowance also increases to three checked bags at 32kg each, and they’ll be marked with priority tags. This can be a big money saver if you’re moving across the country or if you tend to travel with a lot of luggage. 

Priority Rewards earned by Aeroplan 35K member are valid for travel in economy and premium economy across North America, including Sun destinations.

For Select Privileges, 35K members can choose one of the following from Bundle 1:

  • 35% bonus Aeroplan points with Air Canada and select airline partners
  • 15 eUpgrade credits

I would consider the 15 eUpgrade credits to be the best option here. As we have discussed in detail, eUpgrades can be of consider value if used strategically, and I think that most 35K members would get better value out of this option. 

Aeroplan 50K

Aeroplan 50K is reached when you earn 50,000 SQM or 50 SQS, as well as at least $6,000 SQD. If you are a member of the Air Canada Million Miler program, you’ll also enjoy this status for the rest of your life, no matter how little or how much you fly.

In addition to the aforementioned Core Privileges for 25K and 35K members, 50K gives you Star Alliance Gold status.

This extends many of your elite privileges when you’re flying with other Star Alliance airlines, including priority airport check-in, baggage handling, boarding, and access to all Star Alliance lounges worldwide for yourself and one guest.

For Maple Leaf Lounges, you can invite immediate family members and one guest at no charge. This also includes access to the Air Canada Café at Toronto Pearson, which offers far superior coffee than its domestic lounge counterpart. 

Air Canada Café Toronto

50K and above members will enjoy complimentary Preferred Seats on Flex fares and above with Air Canada flights within North America. This affords you a bit of extra legroom and access to the front of the economy cabin without any extra charges.

If you earn a Priority Reward, it’s valid towards travel in economy class or premium economy within North America and to Sun destinations. Note that this is the same as the benefit offered to Aeroplan 35K members.

For Select Privileges, 50K members can choose two of the following from Bundle 1:

  • 50% bonus Aeroplan points with Air Canada and select airline partners
  • 20 eUpgrade credits
  • Lower requalification level
  • 2 Status Passes

With these benefits, I’d consider the 50% bonus Aeroplan points and the 20 eUpgrade credits as the best options. After all, if you’re flying 50,000 or more miles per year, a 50% bonus isn’t insignificant, while the 20 eUpgrades carry undeniable value. 

Status Passes may be a good option to give to a group of people travelling on the same booking, but personally (and maybe selfishly), I find better value in the other two options.

At 50K, you’ll also have access to Threshold eUpgrades and gifts. These are earned when you reach cross an additional SQM or SQS threshold between tiers.

For example, after reaching 60,000 SQM or 60 SQS, you’ll receive an additional 10 eUpgrades, 2,500 rollover SQM, and 2,500 bonus Aeroplan points. There are further Threshold Gifts at various levels, and full details can be found on the Air Canada website.

Aeroplan 75K

The second-highest tier, Aeroplan 75K, is reached when you earn 75,000 SQM or 75 SQS, as well as at least $9,000 SQD in a calendar year. While the benefits for 75K largely mirror those of 50K members, there are a few additional perks in which some people may find extra value.

75K members enjoy complimentary preferred seats on Flex fares in all markets. For you and anyone else travelling on the same Air Canada reservation, you can select these seats at no cost. 

For 75K and Super Elite status holders, Air Canada will guarantee an economy class seat for you and one travel companion on any Air Canada flight booked in a full-fare economy (“Y” booking class) at least six hours prior to departure. 

Guaranteeing you a seat means that someone else will be denied boarding. This comes at an additional cost to Air Canada under Canada’s Air Passenger Protection RegulationsEU261, or under the Montreal Convention. You’ll be en route to where you need to be, albeit at a cost to you (with a full-fare ticket) and to the airline (in having to pay compensation to the denied passenger).

Air Canada will deny boarding to other passengers to get an Elite 75K member on their full-fare flight.

At this level, your Priority Rewards are valid towards travel in economy class and premium economy worldwide.

For Select Privileges, 75K members can choose two of the following six options from Bundle 1:

  • 75% bonus Aeroplan points with Air Canada and select airline partners
  • 35 eUpgrade credits
  • Lower requalification level
  • Aeroplan 35K status for a friend
  • 12-month Wi-Fi plan
  • 3 Status Passes

The Select Privileges here get a bit more interesting. Prior to choosing them, it would be wise to review your past, current, and future travel plans to see where you can extract the most value. 

Personally, I’d be inclined to select the 75% bonus Aeroplan points and the 35 eUpgrade credits, as I think I would get the most value from those. But, I can also see value with the 35K status for a friend or the 12-month Wi-Fi plan options, too. 

Gifting 35K status could be put to good use for someone who flies frequently throughout the year  perhaps separately from you. If you tend to work when you fly, the Wi-Fi pass would save you around $800 as compared to buying a monthly plan. And if you know a group of people travelling together, the Status Passes could help them elevate their travel experience and save money on baggage fees, too.

Aeroplan Super Elite

Air Canada’s highest status (that can be earned) is Aeroplan Super Elite. It is obtained by earning 100,000 SQM or 100 SQS, as well as earning at least $20,000 SQD in a calendar year. 

In addition to all aforementioned benefits, Super Elites are afforded several additional perks for being the airline’s most loyal customers:

  • For Core Privileges, Super Elites get complimentary preferred seats on all fares anywhere Air Canada flies.
  • Super Elites and one guest can also access the Arrivals Lounge at London Heathrow.
  • With Aeroplan bookings, you can enjoy free cancellation and free changes to any bookings. 
  • Super Elites receive a free beverage (including alcohol) and a free snack when travelling in economy class on Air Canada flights.

Further, your Priority Rewards are valid towards travel in business class on any Star Alliance airline worldwide. We’ve outlined how to maximize this perk in detail, and it can indeed be a very powerful and valuable benefit.

Perhaps the most intriguing benefit for Super Elites is the Concierge service. These employees offer personalized, proactive service to Super Elites, which includes handling special requests, proactively monitoring flight cancellations and connections, and ensuring your travel experience is as comfortable as possible. 

Air Canada Concierge, Montreal

We have heard from some Super Elites who have remarked at the lengths to which the Concierge has gone to assist. This includes digging through the bowels of airports to locate missing luggage, holding up planes so they can make a tight connection, and developing a personalized experience unavailable to most travellers.

For Select Privileges, Super Elites can choose two of the following six options from Bundle 1:

  • 100% bonus Aeroplan points with Air Canada and select airline partners
  • 50 eUpgrade credits
  • Lower requalification level
  • Aeroplan 50K status for a friend
  • 12-month Wi-Fi plan
  • 4 Status Passes

As with the Select Privileges for 75K members, the best value will depend on your individual preferences. Aeroplan points will accumulate very quickly with a 100% bonus. 50 eUpgrade credits can save you thousands of dollars. 50K status is a very generous gift for a friend or family member, too. 

For my work at a travel agency, we have a lot of Super Elites, and I have the pleasure of assisting with consulting for their elite benefits. The majority of them decide to go with 100% bonus Aeroplan points and 50 eUpgrade credits, but I have also selected many of the other options if they are a better fit for the traveller. 

Conclusion

The Aeroplan Elite Status program rewards Air Canada’s most frequent travellers with a variety of perks and privileges. Core Privileges offer a range of priority services and enhanced travel options, while the Select Privileges cater to individual preferences.

I find the most value with the benefits in eUpgrades, lounge access, complimentary checked bags, Priority Rewards, and priority services at the airport. If you’re lucky enough to enjoy access to the Air Canada Concierge team as a Super Elite, you’re sure to be well looked after on your journeys.

No matter how you prefer to engage with Aeroplan, having status can help you get more out of the program. If you mostly travel on paid flights, then your status can recuperate some of your money in the form of added perks when you travel.

Meanwhile, if you like to redeem points for business class, then earning eUpgrades can help reduce the number of points you need to burn. Plus, showing off that bag-tag swagger comes with its own prestige, too.

 

95 Comments
  1. Francis Cortellino

    Hello, great article. Question on the SQD. I have an Aeroplan Status, but not my wife. If I buy two fligh tickets on the same reservation (one for myself, one for my wife), are the SQD that I will receive is only for my ticket, or for the two tickets? Thanks

    1. T.J. YQQ

      You’ll only receive SQD for your personal flights (not for anyone else’s).

  2. Brendan McCullough

    What is a Status Qualification Boost? I get these most months in connection with my Visa Infinite card but don’t know what they are used for.

    1. T.J. YQQ

      The Status Qualification Boost is extra SQM/SQS earned through credit card spending. It helps you get to the next status level tier without having to fly to earn the SQM/SQS.

  3. Bert

    If I’m about to pass into Super Elite status with a flight, and I’ll also get my next priority reward at the same time, will it be a priority reward as if I was Super Elite, or will it be treated as if I was 75k status?

    Example here: I’m at 80k SQM. Going to do a trip that will bump me over 100k SQM on the return leg of my flight. The return leg will also bump me over 30k SQD, triggering a priority reward. Would you expect the priority reward to be counted under 75k status or Super Elite Status?

    Thanks!

    1. T.J. YQQ

      I believe it will be a 75K Priority Reward when you hit the threshold, but if it’s a Super Elite one, that will just be a bonus.

  4. Brett

    Question for you TJ. If I hit threshold gift levels that include roll over SQM, do they stack? for example there is a threshold gift of 2,500 roll over SQM and then at another level there is a roll over of 5,000 SQM. If I hit both of these thresholds do I get 7,500 SQM next year or is it just the higher of the 2 values?

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Howdy Brett! Those should stack and rollover.

      1. Brett

        Thanks TJ. That makes the decision easier

  5. Ray

    Will status qualifying miles be earned with Air Canada if the flight is booked with a star alliance partner?

  6. Raman

    For SQD is it earned 100% of the base fare for any class of travel?

    1. Raman

      Also, if in a calender year jan to dec lets say you earn 2000 sqd and are 1000 short from reaching the silver status, would those sqd carry over into the next year or be reset?

      1. T.J. YQQ

        Hi Raman. The SQD earned depends on the fare you buy, and the base fare and carrier-imposed surcharges, but not government-imposed taxes, will count towards your SQD. Your SQD don’t rollover.

  7. Carmela

    Can I earn status by just spending on aeroplan card or do I need flights as well – I often travel with aeroplan points so not much chance of paying for flights

    1. T.J. YQQ

      You can earn 25K status by earning 100,000 Aeroplan points over the course of the year (Everyday Status Qualification).

  8. DL

    Hi, love all of your Aeroplan articles. I’m currently on track to hit 75K later this year and contemplating which Select Benefits would be most advantageous in the latter part of the Early Recognition Period (i.e. hitting 75K in December 2022). I understand that some Select Benefits like Status Passes are only valid until the end of that benefit year so it wouldn’t be very useful to select this in December. Any experience with choosing the “12-month wi-fi plan” or “35K for a Friend” benefits this late in the calendar year? If I chose these in December 2022, would they continue into 2023 or are they only valid for 2022?

  9. Daniel

    Hi, thanks for the great info! I have a 9 and 5 year old. If I’m flying YYJ to YEG, do I earn SQM/SQS on their portion of the ticket as well as mine? Or should they have their own aeroplan membership and add them into the family group? Thanks!

    1. T.J. YQQ

      You’ll only earn for yourself, so it would be a great idea to get them set up with Aeroplan memberships and add them to the family group.

  10. Justin

    If I just get status 25k say today May 4, 2022. Is that status only good until Dec 31, 2022. Like say I get up to 35k status in November 2022 is it only gold until December 31, 2022 then you start from scratch again January 1, 2023?

    1. Rachel YYZ

      After earning status, you’ll keep it through the next calendar year.

  11. Anita

    I have 35k status. Do people who travel me receive free luggage as well (same reservation)?

  12. May

    Does one earn SQM on paid flights only or can we earn them on reward bookings as well? Thanks

    1. T.J. YQQ

      You only earn SQM, SQS, and SQD on paid flights.

  13. Ariana CAL

    Hello. I currently have 25K Status (carry over, and exp 2022) and three core Aeroplan credit cards (TD, CIBC, AMEX) . I having trouble sorting out how much EQD do I need to stay at 25K status. Do I need only $25,000 in spend to get 25 SQS and of course the $3,000 SQD? And second question, confused on how much EQD/SQS I need to move up to 35K? Is it $100,000 spend to get 10 SQS to add to the 25 sqs for the 25k level I already have, to make 35SQS. Plus the $4000 sqd which is only $1000 more than the 25k level.
    Is it best for the spend to be on same credit card type to take the best advantage of the every $10k is 1 SQS? Or is it cumulative with credit cards and the EQD that are posted on the Aeroplan activity list? ( am busy studying the Accelerate blog but still a bit confused…THANK YOU )

    1. T.J. YQQ

      You can remain at 25K by earning 100,000 Aeroplan points over the course of the year, without any SQD requirements. For Core credit cards, you earn 1,000 SQM and 1 SQS for every $10,000 spent on the card. To earn SQD, you have to fly with Air Canada on paid flights, and it’s $3,000 for 25K or $4,000 for 35K. You will earn 1,000 SQM for each $10,000 Core card, and you’re able to earn per card.

      1. Ariana CAL

        Hello, Thank you very much for your time in replying. This helps alot. Thanks again.. 🙂

  14. peterprinciple

    I finally received 35k status in late Jan 2022, based on the prior year’s 10k spend on premium cards promo.

    I’ve read mixed things online but want to confirm two things:
    1. does my 35k status good until the end of 2023 (basically the “if u earn it in year you get it immediately, but it lasts until the year after”? or am I wrong and it’s only good until 2022?
    2. Assuming answer to above is end of 2023… then is there no value in me earning SQD nor SQM throughout 2022 (assuming I wouldn’t make it to 50k)

    thank you!

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Your status will be valid until the end of 2022, unless Air Canada extends it for another year (I think that’s doubtful).

      1. Mike F

        Any word Amex will run this promo again? I’d like to keep my 35k status but primarily fly with reward tickets.

  15. LEX

    Currently, I have no elite status but I have flights booked for April that will earn me 35k status miles (double status promo). I’ll be zero to 35k after I complete my roundtrip flight. Do I earn both the 25k elite benefits and 35k elite benefits at the same time?

    By my calculations, each way will earn me 17600 status miles. So I won’t have a brief pause on hitting the 25k status and immediately hit 35k status upon completing my return flight.

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Hmm, good question. I think you’ll jump straight to 35K. Please keep us posted!

  16. StatusNewbie

    Hi T.J. If one books a flight with a connection and the total length is 1,000 miles, but one leg is 150 and the other 850, does that count as 1 or 2 SQS? Does this change if it is 400 and 600?

    1. T.J. YQQ

      You’ll get one segment per flight, no matter how short or long it is.

  17. Raj

    I have 35K this year and am on track to earning 50K for next year.

    If I get 50K for next year, do I need to earn 75K for the following year? Or can I just meet the 50K requirements and maintain it/requalify for it?

    1. T.J. YQQ

      You can maintain/requalify for any level, so no need to keep moving up the tiers.

  18. Cpt

    How do you use the priority security lines if you have 35k status? Show them your aeroplan card when you walk up ?

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Priority Security will be indicated on your boarding pass.

  19. Michael G

    I have Visa Infinite Privilege card which promises some rollovers. I currently have 25K status which from 2020 wasn’t earned organically but through points sum promotion and extended to 2021 and 2022 subsequently.
    I have only 24500 SQM and 1100 SQD – will these be rolled over according to the Infinite Privilege card benefit or I have to beef it up to 25K SQM and 3500 SQD to be able to use Jumpstart 2022 promotion?

    1. T.J. YQQ

      You’d have to have fulfilled all the requirements for earning 25K status organically for it to rollover to next year (jumpstarting for 2022’s qualifying).

  20. Circuscowboy

    I will have about 92000 of 100000 edq posted by December and on another card the last 8000 will be earned but not posted until January 17. Do you know if this will work or is the calendar over Dec 31 and only posted edq points count.

    Thanks

  21. Richard

    If I haven’t selected my Select Privileges yet in 2021 and have only a few more weeks to do so, and I haven’t flown at all in 2021, is there any value in making the selection now? In other words, will any selection I make now have lasting effect for 2022? For example, if I select to give someone 12 months of Elite status, will they get it for a full 12 months going forward, or just for the balance of 2021? If I select 50 E- Upgrade points now, and if I’ve already got more than I can rollover to next year, do these points last longer by selecting them now?
    Your thoughts on how to maximize value for Select Benefits so late in the year would be appreciated.

  22. Kaz YVR

    “Note that the SQD requirement is halved for those residing outside of Canada.”

    I think this is no longer the case starting from 2022? Ricky wrote this on Oct 18 in his article.

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Yes – we have updated the article accordingly.

  23. Zo

    Hi TJ, I was approved for the Chase Aeroplan card and have the 20+5 eUps in my account now. Will these expire in early 2022, and therefore will have to be used soon, or will they rollover into next year?

    1. T.J. YQQ

      They should be valid through the next benefit year. You can find out when they expire by logging into your Aeroplan account and navigating to the eUpgrade page on the dropdown list.

  24. Francois

    Good morning

    Will all my aeroplan infinite priviledge credit card sqm and segments obtained only by spending will they be erased in 2022 or will it be rolled over.

    Thanks

    1. T.J. YQQ

      The SQM and SQS only rollover if you’ve organically earned status by completing the SQM, SQS, and SQD requirements.

  25. Chris

    Is there still en eStore bonus for elite members? I tend to recall reading something about this would be announced later, but never really saw anything. I know for 2021 the existing bonus structure had been respected.

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Buried in the FAQ on the eStore page, it states: “Aeroplan Elite Status members will earn an extra 2 points per dollar spent on the Aeroplane eStore.”

  26. J.C.

    Great article! Just wondering – if I was qualified for 25K status in September of this year and I was given 25 e-upgrades that I haven’t used. If I have the black Amex Aeroplan card, do those 25 e-upgrades rollover and I will get 25 new upgrades for next year, so I will have 50 in total for 2022? Thank you!

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Yes – once the eUpgrades roll over (which should happen some time early in 2022), you’ll have 50 at your disposal for 2022.

  27. Luke

    Hey there, I’m currently on my way to 25k status but have found if I don’t book the trip myself I don’t receive the sqs/sqm even if I add the existing booking. Can you confirm if there is a way to add the sqs/sqm if I didn’t book the fare myself?

  28. Alexa

    Hello! For the credit card SQS earning, is that $5000 in one billing cycle or just cumulatively every $5000?

    1. T.J. YQQ

      It should be cumulatively every $5,000.

  29. Rameez

    What does this mean and how can we ensure getting SQD on, let’s say, United flights within US?

    “You can also earn SQD on Star Alliance airlines ticketed on Air Canada 014 stock”

    1. T.J. YQQ

      The 014 refers to Air Canada ticket stock. This means that the ticket was purchased, for example, directly with Air Canada. You’ll earn SQD for eligible flights this way.

  30. Man Ban

    Hi T.J.! Does the flight has to be booked directly with Air Canada for the benefits to apply? If the flight has been booked with United Airlines (YUL-DEN-ANC), but the first leg is operated by Air Canada, does the benefits of the 25K Elite Status (including baggage allowance) will apply?

    1. T.J. YQQ

      For baggage allowance, it’s the first carrier on the booking that applies. So, if you fly YUL-DEN-ANC, you’ll get the 25K baggage allowance for the entire booking.

      1. Richard

        If I haven’t selected my Select Privileges yet in 2021 and have only a few more weeks to do so, and I haven’t flown at all in 2021, is there any value in making the selection now? In other words, will any selection I make now have lasting effect for 2022? For example, if I select to give someone 12 months of Elite status, will they get it for a full 12 months going forward, or just for the balance of 2021? If I select 50 E- Upgrade points now, and if I’ve already got more than I can rollover to next year, do these points last longer by selecting them now?
        Your thoughts on how to maximize value for Select Benefits do late in the year would be appreciated.

      2. Man Ban

        Thanks for the answer. What I was not sure is: if the booking has been made with United (not Air Canada), so the ticket is issued by United, does the Air Canada 25K benefit will apply on check-in (considering that the first leg is operated by Air Canada)?

        1. T.J. YQQ

          I confirmed with Air Canada that you will enjoy benefits on flights ticketed by other Star Alliance airlines but operated by Air Canada. So, in your case, since it is the first segment, you’ll be good to go.

          1. MB

            Great!, thank you!

  31. Jared

    Hi TJ. Thanks for the helpful article. I find myself in a different situation than some others. I am close to 35K this year through SQM but am going to be short on SQD (lots of domestic US flying, not ticketed by AC). If I’m reading this correctly, flight pass purchases count.

    Does anyone know if the SQD for a flight pass posts to account upon purchase of the pass, or upon completion on travel? TIA.

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Hi Jared! To the best of my knowledge, your SQD won’t post until after travel.

  32. MVPSim

    Hey T.J. – great article. Do you know if we have 25k with everyday status qualification, if we want to fly to get to 35k, do we just need 10k status miles and SQD? Or do we need 35k status miles from flying?

    1. T.J. YQQ

      I reached out to Aeroplan, and they confirmed that you’ll have to qualify through the regular criteria for higher statuses. So, you’ll need to hit all of the thresholds for SQM/SQS and SQD. Happy flying!

  33. Ap

    If I book flights on United Airlines directly. Does it count towards my SQM or SQD?

  34. Cecil Liu YYZ

    Hi TJ, may I know if any of these benefits (free checked baggage, separate check-in counter) apply if I redeem the points from my account for a friend and I am not flying with him? Thx!

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Hi Cecil! Unfortunately the benefits won’t transfer to someone booked from your account but not travelling with you. You’ll be able to snag a free preferred seat for them during the booking process, though 😉

  35. Celine

    Hello! Wondering if AC still gives out those baggage tags for the statuses. Couldnt find any info anywhere.

    Thanks!

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Hi Celine!
      35K and above will get baggage tags. Unfortunately, 25K doesn’t get the tags.

  36. Sam

    Hi T.J. – does booking on e-Upgrades and Priority rewards count towards status for SQM/SQS/SQD?

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Hi Sam! Aeroplan bookings don’t count toward Elite Status – only eligible paid bookings do.

      1. sam

        Ah thanks for getting back to me T.J. If we pay latitude fare and use e-Upgrades to get onto business or premium classes do they not count at all?

        1. T.J. YQQ

          For booking with Aeroplan points, no. If there is an add-on fee with your eUpgrade, it counts toward SQD.

  37. T

    For the 25k baggage allowance, how does that work on connecting flights. I’ve got a flight from YOW to YUL on AC, connecting to PTY on CM. So I get the 25k baggage allowance since I’m checking in with Air Canada, or do I not get it because the longest flight is on Copa?

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Your baggage allowance is determined by the first carrier on your booking. So, outbound you’d have the 25K allotment. But if you fly with another carrier on the first leg of your return, you’ll be subject to their baggage terms.

      1. M B

        Hi T.J.! Does the flight has to be booked directly with Air Canada for the benefits to apply? If the flight has been booked with United Airlines (YUL-DEN-ANC), but the first leg is operated by Air Canada, does the benefits of the 25K Elite Status (including baggage allowance) will apply?

  38. Paul

    Maybe it is just my flying habits but I am finding the SQMs and/or SQSs to be disproportionally high relative to the SQD. I currently sit at 9200/$2300 or 8/$2300. I will be hitting the SQDs for the various tiers while SQMs/SQSs will be lagging behind.

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Do you have an Aeroplan co-branded credit card? If you have a Premium card, you’ll get an extra 1,000 SQM and 1 SQS for every $5,000 spent, which could be of use in your case. But, you’re right, it’s hard to hit 25 SQS while only spending $3,000 SQD.

  39. Steven

    Hi TJ,
    Access to the Air Canada Cafe at Toronto Pearson? Is this a paid service?
    For SQD halved requirement, do you need have the Foreign address on file in the beginning of year or year end?
    Thanks!

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Hi Steven!

      Not sure about the SQD thing – I imagine that it would halve the requirement if you move anytime in the year though.

      AC Cafe was another area at YYZ for J passengers and some Elites. It served better coffee and had grab and go food. It has been closed since COVID and I imagine it won’t reopen until things pick up again.

  40. Jane

    Hi TJ,
    Great Article. Would buying an AC flight using Aventura or Avion flexible points count as SQD or would the flight have to be booked through aircanada.com?

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Hi Jane! Unfortunately, flights booked with Aventura or Avion flexible points aren’t eligible for SQD accrual.

      1. Jane

        Thanks T.J. 👍🏿

  41. Sweetvibes

    I have a friend at 75k, who is thinking of gifting me 35k status (currently have 25k) do you know if I am gifted the 35k and subsequently upgraded, would I also get a priorty reward that is given to those who earn 35k the regular way?

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Hi Amit! You have a very nice friend. I was gifted 35K status this year, and there wasn’t a Priority Reward added to my account. So, you’d have to meet the minimum spending requirement to organically earn a Priority Reward.

      1. Circuscowboy

        I will have about 92000 of 100000 edq posted by December and on another card the last 8000 will be earned but not posted until January 17. Do you know if this will work or is the calendar over Dec 31 and only posted edq points count.

        Thanks

      2. Sweetvibes

        T.J.

        Thanks for this vital info! I was really hoping to get the 50% off in economy latitude and then subsequently using my e-upgrades, but alas I will dream on to other things.

  42. Helgi

    Wondering, with 25K status, the ability to select seats at the front of the economy cabin – is it for fee or free? When is this option available to use? I have paid flight in economy, but choosing seats on the seat map shows that all seats are for a fee. Thanks.

    1. T.J. YQQ

      Hi Helgi! For most fares, these are paid seats. Non-status members have to book a higher (Comfort/Latitude) fare to access these seats.

      1. Helgi

        Thanks T.J.

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