Well, this is exciting! Unlike most frequent flyer programs, which are run by the carrier, Aeroplan is a separate program run by Aimia, who contract with Air Canada for seats, sale of miles, etc. The program was up for renewal in 2020. Today, Air Canada announced that they will be opening their own frequent flyer program, and cancelling their relationship with Aeroplan effective June 30, 2020.

Aeroplan is likely only viable as a program while their relationship with Air Canada continues. Once that relationship is over, I don’t see how Aeroplan continues to exist. At this time, I have no clue how things will turn out, whether Air Canada will transfer the miles, and other important logistics. To say the least, interesting times…

Here’s the full press release:

Air Canada to Launch Its Own Loyalty Program in 2020

Airline to end exclusive contract with Aeroplan provider Aimia

• Aeroplan members can continue to earn and redeem Aeroplan Miles
• Air Canada committed to business as usual through 2020, with smooth transition to new program
• Air Canada intends to continue to offer Aimia redemption seats post-2020
• Strengthening Air Canada customer relationships and service at core of decision

MONTREAL, May 11, 2017 /CNW Telbec/ – Air Canada today announced its decision to launch its own loyalty program in 2020 upon the expiry of its commercial agreement with Aimia, the operator of Aeroplan. Effective June 30, 2020, Aeroplan will no longer be the loyalty program for Air Canada. Aeroplan has been independently owned and operated by Aimia for almost a decade. By operating its own loyalty program, Air Canada will be better able to strengthen its customer relationships and deliver a more consistent end-to-end customer experience.

“Our relationship with our more than 45 million customers sits at the core of Air Canada’s ongoing transformation as we continue to grow our business beyond the 200 destinations that we already serve, and work to become a global champion,” said Calin Rovinescu, President and Chief Executive Officer. “This decision is the right one for our customers, our employees and our shareholders.”

Creating a more rewarding loyalty program for our customers

“The new program, launching in 2020, will offer additional earning and redemption opportunities, more personalized service and a better digital experience for Air Canada customers,” said Benjamin Smith, President, Passenger Airlines.

Over the past decade, Air Canada has invested $10 billion to renew its fleet with the most technologically-capable aircraft, and to elevate its product offering, including all-new seats, Wi-Fi connectivity, expanded and renovated Maple Leaf Lounges, increased digital capabilities and updated branding comprised of a new livery, new uniforms and much more to improve the travel experience.

“Similar to all of Air Canada’s North American peers, by managing our own loyalty program, we will be able to take better care of our customers by making decisions in real time that address specific needs,” added Mr. Smith. “We’re excited to take this next step that delivers on our promise for continued investments in the customer experience.”

The next three years

Air Canada’s exclusive contract with Aimia remains in effect until its June 29, 2020 expiration date. Until then, Air Canada is committed to business as usual by working closely with Aimia with the objective of providing consistent service for Aeroplan members.

During this period, Aeroplan members can continue to earn and redeem miles in accordance with the Aeroplan program:

• Before the new Air Canada program launches in June 2020, members will be able to earn and redeem Aeroplan Miles for Aeroplan Rewards, including flights with Air Canada and our Star Alliance partners in accordance with the Aeroplan program.
• After June 2020, miles earned from Air Canada and Star Alliance flights will be credited to the new program, with customers able to redeem those miles for rewards including Air Canada and Star Alliance partner flights.
• Aeroplan miles earned up to June 2020 will stay in Aeroplan members’ accounts, and will continue to be subject to the conditions of their program.
• Air Canada intends to continue to offer Aimia redemption seats for Aeroplan members after June 2020, with pricing competitive with other third-party rewards programs.
• The airline’s most frequent flyers will continue to enjoy Air Canada Altitude status recognition and its associated range of travel privileges, based on their annual flight activities with Air Canada and the Star Alliance member airlines. All Million Mile program qualification activity and status will also be honoured in the new program.
• Air Canada intends to implement near-term improvements to Air Canada Altitude and other elements of the customer experience.

“Doing the right thing for Air Canada’s customers throughout this transition period will be our guiding principle,” said Mr. Rovinescu.

The new program is good for the airline’s financial performance

The new Air Canada loyalty program will be focused on improved rewards and recognition for the airline’s customers, and will provide Air Canada and our business partners with significant growth opportunities.

Air Canada will provide greater detail at its Investor Day on September 19, 2017 concerning the financial benefits expected to be realized, as well as the transitional costs.

Air Canada expects the net present value of the program repatriation over a 15-year period to exceed $2 billion.

Full information on the announcement and additional information for our customers can be found at aircanada.com/loyalty.