Air Canada has provided details of some changes to their Elite Status program for 2023. This update only sees changes to the Aeroplan 35K elite status level.
Aeroplan 35K changes:
The changes to the Aeroplan 35K member benefits are as follows:
- As of June 1, 2023, Aeroplan 35K members will no longer have unlimited access to our Maple Leaf Lounges as part of their Aeroplan 35K benefits. Please note this change will not affect the two (2) Maple Leaf Lounge guest passes that also come with this status
- Starting January 1, 2023, the following benefits for Aeroplan 35K members will be added:
- Priority baggage handling: Baggage for the member and travel companions will be tagged to be among the first on the carousel when you arrive at your destination when travelling with Air Canada
- Additional eUpgrade credits: The number of eUpgrade credits Aeroplan 35K members can choose as a Select Benefit will be increased from 10 to 15
- Priority Rewards to include all North America and Sun Destinations: Any Priority Rewards earned as an Aeroplan 35K member next year will be expanded to include bookings to all North America and Sun destinations, including Premium Economy, where offered (identical to what Aeroplan 50K’s receive)
Thoughts
The removal of unlimited access to Maple Leaf lounges for 35Ks will be a tough pill to swallow for many. It is one of the most sought after benefits for those who are part of this level of elite status. My guess is this being done to alleviate crowding of the lounges which in part are probably more full now thanks to the various elite status promotions, extensions and ability to earn/retain status via credit cards.
The other changes are of course positive, Priority baggage handling, when it works, is a nice benefit to have to save you a few extra minutes upon arrival. Extra eUpgrade credits are always nice to have and being able to use Priority Rewards to more destinations should make that benefit that much more usable for 35K members.
Additional notes from Aeroplan
After not sending membership kits in 2022, Aeroplan will restart mailing kits to members holding the same or a lower status in January. Elite Status members who have tiered up in 2022 should have already received their 2023 kits or will soon receive it if the change in Status was recent.
Members with Aeroplan 50K, 75K and Super Elite Status, and one guest, can now enjoy access to Virgin Australia lounges when departing on a Virgin Australia or Air Canada® flight from that airport. We have reported on the previously however Air Canada will now be letting all their members know about this option.