More often than not, when an airline announces some “tweaks” to parts of its loyalty program, that is code for a devaluation and is generally negative news.
Thankfully, Air Canada has bucked the trend and announced a few changes to its e-upgrades, and this time around, the news is good. In fact, you can argue that the airline is actually boosting the value of these certificates and making them far more useful.
So, what are these new changes coming in 2024?
Streamlined Expiration
Air Canada has streamlined the expiration of all its certificates. Effective July 1, 2024, all eUpgrades certificates will be valid for 12 months from the date they are issued. This is a big improvement on the previous policy, which took the calendar year into account. This meant you were penalized if you picked up a certificate later in the year.
eUpgrade Rollover Policy
From July 1, 2024, the rollover benefit will be discontinued. In its place, Air Canada will introduce an extended validity. To take advantage of the new extended validity benefit, members’ premium credit cards need to be linked to the Aeroplan account at the time of the issuance of your eUpgrade certificate.
One thing to note is that as part of the changeover, Air Canada announced a one-off rollover. This will apply to credits earned up to June 30, 2024. Up to 50 credits will be rolled over on March 31, 2025, and will remain valid through January 15, 2026.
Improved Premium Credit Card Holder Benefits
Holders of Air Canada Aeroplan credit cards will now be able to enjoy a whole new host of features and benefits.
Elimination of Credit Cap
Your earnings will no longer be limited to a maximum of 50 credits. From July 1, 2024, cardholders will be able to earn credits without any limits.
New Extended Validity Benefit
Premium Credit Card Holders’ eUpgrade credits will have improved validity. Credits will be valid for 24 months, which is double the amount of time they are typically valid for. This is a substantial increase and benefit for cardholders since other status members’ certificates are only valid for 12 months.
How To Earn eUpgrades Certificates
Earning eUpgrade credits has not changed much, and Air Canada Aeroplan elite members can still earn eUpgrade credits in any of the following ways.
- Qualifying for a higher elite status in the Air Canada Aeroplan program.
- Reaching the threshold for an eUpgrade.
- Choosing eUpgrades as a Select Benefit.
- Receive an eUpgrade by completing an eligible Flight Pass activity.
Air Canada Aeroplan Premium Credit Cards
You can earn eUpgrades with any of the following premium Air Canada credit cards.
- American Express Air Canada Card
- American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card
- American Express Aeroplan Corporate Reserve Card
- American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card
- TD® Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card
- CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card
Credit Card Cancellation Policy
Any credits earned during the card’s lifetime will be valid for 24 months. This is the case even if the expiration deadline is after the cancellation of the Air Canada credit card. However, any credits earned after the cancellation of the card will be subject to the normal 12-month expiration policy.
This can lead to a very bizarre situation where some credits will expire before others despite the fact they are earned nearly a year later. For instance, if you hold a card and earn a credit in January 2025, these will expire in January 2027. Let’s assume you cancel your card in February 2025 and earn credits under the 12-month rule in March 2025.
This second batch of credits will expire in March 2026, which is a full nine months before the other credits that were earned earlier. This is something well worth keeping in mind if you are planning on canceling your Air Canada card.
When Will the Changes Take Place
All the new changes will come into force from July 1, 2024. However, while these changes are positive, in most cases, it is worth your time to make sure you do not have any negative situations with your certificates due to the current ruleset.
Many of the changes coming in July will not impact any of the credits currently in the member’s account. These will still expire and be used under the current rules and expiration deadlines.
Final Thoughts
Air Canada and its loyalty program have been one of our favorites at Oscape for a while now. Whether it’s the Air Canada Signature class on long-haul flights or the stunning Air Canada Signature lounge in Toronto Pearson, the airline has delivered outstanding service and products across the board.
This also applies to domestic routes and short hops in North America, where the journey from Vancouver to San Fransico was also a breeze. It seems Air Canada aims to improve its offering across the board in 2024. Aside from improving the eUpgrades, they have also announced the launch of a new amenity kit in 2024.
Table Of Contents