What To Know
- Yes, you can indirectly use Air Canada points to fly on United by transferring them to a partner airline that has a redemption agreement with United.
- Once you have transferred your Air Canada points to a United partner airline, you can use those points to book flights on United.
- Let’s say you have 100,000 Air Canada Aeroplan points and want to book a round-trip flight from Toronto to San Francisco on United.
With the vast array of airline loyalty programs available, navigating the intricate web of point redemptions can be a daunting task. One common question that arises is “can you use Air Canada points on United?” In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into this topic, exploring the possibilities and limitations associated with cross-program point usage.
Understanding the Air Canada and United Partnership
Air Canada and United Airlines maintain a codeshare partnership, allowing passengers to book flights on either carrier using the other’s frequent flyer program. However, this partnership does not extend to point redemptions.
Using Air Canada Points on United Flights
Directly: No, you cannot directly use Air Canada Aeroplan points to book flights on United.
Indirectly: Yes, you can indirectly use Air Canada points to fly on United by transferring them to a partner airline that has a redemption agreement with United.
Transferring Air Canada Points to United Partner Airlines
Air Canada Aeroplan points can be transferred to the following United partner airlines:
- Avianca LifeMiles
- Copa Airlines ConnectMiles
- Ethiopian Airlines ShebaMiles
- Lufthansa Miles & More
- Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
- Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles
Booking United Flights with Partner Points
Once you have transferred your Air Canada points to a United partner airline, you can use those points to book flights on United. However, there are certain restrictions and limitations to consider:
- Availability: Award availability may vary depending on the partner airline and the specific routes you are interested in.
- Taxes and Fees: You may be responsible for paying additional taxes and fees when redeeming points for flights on United.
- Redemption Rates: The redemption rates for United flights may differ from the rates for flights on the partner airline.
Example of Using Air Canada Points on United
Let’s say you have 100,000 Air Canada Aeroplan points and want to book a round-trip flight from Toronto to San Francisco on United.
- Transfer Points: Transfer 100,000 Aeroplan points to Avianca LifeMiles.
- Book Flight: Use 60,000 LifeMiles to book the round-trip flight on United.
- Pay Taxes and Fees: Pay any applicable taxes and fees associated with the redemption.
Benefits of Using Air Canada Points on United
- Access to United’s Network: Redeeming Air Canada points for United flights allows you to access United’s extensive global network.
- Flexibility: You can transfer Aeroplan points to multiple United partner airlines, giving you greater flexibility in finding award availability.
- Earn United Elite Status: By crediting flights booked with partner points to your United MileagePlus account, you can earn elite status benefits such as priority boarding and lounge access.
Drawbacks of Using Air Canada Points on United
- Transfer Fees: Transferring Aeroplan points to partner airlines may incur a fee.
- Limited Availability: Award availability for United flights may be limited, especially during peak travel periods.
- Higher Redemption Rates: The redemption rates for United flights may be higher than for flights on other partner airlines.
Alternative Ways to Use Air Canada Points
If you are unable to use Air Canada points on United, there are other ways to redeem them:
- Air Canada Flights: Redeem points for flights on Air Canada and its partner airlines.
- Hotel Stays: Transfer points to hotel loyalty programs such as Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors.
- Car Rentals: Use points to rent cars from Avis or Hertz.
- Gift Cards: Redeem points for gift cards to retailers such as Amazon or Best Buy.
Wrap-Up: Unlocking the Value of Air Canada Points
Understanding the intricacies of using Air Canada points on United can empower you to maximize the value of your loyalty rewards. While direct redemption is not possible, transferring points to United partner airlines offers an indirect path to booking flights on United. By carefully considering the benefits and drawbacks, you can make informed decisions that meet your specific travel needs. Remember, the key to unlocking the full potential of your Air Canada points lies in exploring all available options and leveraging partnerships to your advantage.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I transfer Air Canada points to United MileagePlus?
A: No, you cannot directly transfer Air Canada points to United MileagePlus.
Q: What is the best way to use Air Canada points for United flights?
A: Transfer your Aeroplan points to a United partner airline with a favorable redemption rate and award availability.
Q: Are there any fees associated with transferring Air Canada points?
A: Yes, there may be a transfer fee depending on the partner airline and the number of points being transferred.
Q: What is the minimum number of Air Canada points I need to transfer to a United partner airline?
A: The minimum transfer amount varies depending on the partner airline.
Q: Can I use Air Canada points to upgrade my United flight?
A: No, you cannot use Air Canada points to upgrade a United flight.
