What To Know
- Achieving Air Canada Elite status unlocks a world of exclusive perks, priority services, and elevated benefits.
- This comprehensive guide will provide a detailed roadmap on how to get Air Canada Elite status and reap the rewards of their loyalty program, Aeroplan.
- For frequent flyers who value exclusive perks and priority services, Elite status can be a worthwhile investment.
Aspiring to elevate your air travel experience? Achieving Air Canada Elite status unlocks a world of exclusive perks, priority services, and elevated benefits. This comprehensive guide will provide a detailed roadmap on how to get Air Canada Elite status and reap the rewards of their loyalty program, Aeroplan.
Elite Status Tiers
Air Canada offers three Elite status tiers:
- Altitude: The entry-level tier, achieved with 25,000 Status Qualifying Miles (SQMs) or 25 Status Qualifying Segments (SQSs).
- Altitude Elite: The mid-tier, achieved with 50,000 SQMs or 50 SQSs.
- Altitude Super Elite: The highest tier, achieved with 100,000 SQMs or 100 SQSs.
Earning Status Qualifying Miles and Segments
- Flights: Earn SQMs and SQSs on eligible Air Canada, Air Canada Express, and Star Alliance flights.
- Aeroplan Credit Cards: Use co-branded Aeroplan credit cards for everyday purchases to accumulate SQMs.
- Partnerships: Earn SQMs through select hotel stays, car rentals, and other partnerships.
Benefits of Elite Status
- Priority Boarding: Board earlier for a more relaxed travel experience.
- Baggage Benefits: Check additional baggage for free and enjoy priority baggage handling.
- Lounge Access: Access exclusive lounges for relaxation, work, and refreshments.
- Upgrade Priority: Increased chances of complimentary upgrades on eligible flights.
- Bonus Aeroplan Miles: Earn bonus Aeroplan miles on eligible flights.
- Priority Customer Service: Dedicated phone lines and personalized assistance.
- Elite Travel Status: Recognition and benefits on Star Alliance partner airlines.
Strategies for Achieving Elite Status
- Maximize Air Travel: Fly frequently on Air Canada and Star Alliance flights to accumulate SQMs and SQSs.
- Use Aeroplan Credit Cards: Utilize co-branded Aeroplan credit cards for everyday purchases and earn SQMs.
- Take Advantage of Partnerships: Explore hotel stays, car rentals, and other partnerships that offer SQMs.
- Consider Status Match: Some airlines offer status matching programs, allowing you to match your elite status from other loyalty programs.
- Elite Qualifying Offers: Occasionally, Air Canada offers promotions or challenges to accelerate status qualification.
Maintaining Elite Status
Once achieved, Elite status is valid for 12 months. To maintain it, you must re-qualify by earning the required SQMs or SQSs within the following 12-month period.
Beyond Elite Status: Aeroplan Elite Status
For frequent flyers seeking even greater benefits, Air Canada offers Aeroplan Elite status. This exclusive tier provides additional perks, such as:
- Aeroplan Platinum: Access to the Platinum Lounge at Toronto Pearson International Airport.
- Aeroplan Diamond: Personal concierge service and priority airport assistance.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. What is the easiest way to achieve Elite status?
Maximize air travel on Air Canada and Star Alliance flights, use Aeroplan credit cards, and take advantage of partnerships.
2. Can I earn SQMs on non-Air Canada flights?
Yes, you can earn SQMs on eligible Star Alliance flights.
3. How long does it take to maintain Elite status?
Elite status is valid for 12 months and can be maintained by re-qualifying within the following 12-month period.
4. What are the benefits of Aeroplan Elite status?
Aeroplan Elite status offers exclusive perks like lounge access, personal concierge service, and priority airport assistance.
5. How can I match my elite status from another airline?
Contact Air Canada’s Elite Helpline to inquire about status match opportunities.
6. What is the difference between SQMs and SQSs?
SQMs are earned based on the distance flown, while SQSs are earned based on the number of flight segments.
7. Can I gift my Elite status to someone else?
No, Elite status is not transferable.
8. Does Elite status expire?
Yes, Elite status expires after 12 months if not re-qualified.
9. What is the cost of achieving Elite status?
The cost varies depending on your travel habits and spending.
10. Is it worth it to achieve Elite status?
For frequent flyers who value exclusive perks and priority services, Elite status can be a worthwhile investment.
