The Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Credit Card has received a significant update that alters its value proposition for travelers who fly Air Canada regularly. The changes include a higher annual fee, automatic elite status, new statement credits, and an award discount, all of which took effect for both new and existing cardmembers. These adjustments reflect a broader shift toward benefits tied more closely to Air Canada travel. ([1])
Automatic 25K Status Removes Spending Hurdles
One of the most notable updates is the automatic award of Aeroplan 25K status each year without any minimum spending requirement. This entry-level elite tier provides priority check-in, zone 2 boarding, and two free checked bags on Air Canada flights. Previously, new cardmembers received status only through the end of the current calendar year and the following year, after which they needed $15,000 in annual spend to keep it. Cardmembers can still reach 35K status by spending $75,000 on the card in a calendar year, and they continue to earn up to 25,000 status qualifying credits annually. The change simplifies access to these perks for anyone who values day-of-travel advantages on Air Canada routes. It also removes the previous renewal pressure tied to spending thresholds.
New Credits and Award Savings Help Offset Costs
The card now includes up to $100 in annual statement credits for eligible Air Canada purchases, delivered as two $50 credits each year. For the remainder of 2026, cardmembers receive one $50 credit, with the full biannual structure beginning in 2027. This benefit can fully offset the fee increase for those who regularly book with the airline. In addition, cardmembers receive a 15 percent discount on eligible Air Canada flight awards booked with Aeroplan points. The discount applies to one-way itineraries that include at least one Air Canada-operated segment and can stack with Priority Rewards. These features target frequent flyers who redeem points for the carrier’s own flights.
Fee Increase and Earning Rate Adjustments
The annual fee has risen from $95 to $195. Existing cardmembers will see the new fee applied starting December 1, depending on their renewal date. To illustrate the broader changes, the following table compares key earning categories before and after the refresh.
| Category | Previous Rate | New Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Air Canada purchases | 3 points per dollar | Up to 5 points per dollar (with 25K status) |
| Travel purchases | 1 point per dollar | 3 points per dollar |
| Dining and groceries | 3 points per dollar | 2 points per dollar (from 2027) |
| Gas stations | 1 point per dollar | 2 points per dollar |
General travel and gas purchases now earn more points, while dining and grocery categories will see reduced rates beginning January 2027. Air Canada purchases continue to earn 3 points per dollar, with the potential for an extra 2 points from the airline itself for status members.
Additional Perks and What Disappears
A new car rental benefit begins in January 2027, offering the fourth day free at more than 11,000 locations worldwide when booking four days with Aeroplan points. The existing hotel fourth-night-free award remains unchanged. However, two benefits end after December 31, 2026: the monthly spending bonus that awarded up to 1,500 extra points and the 10 percent transfer bonus on large Ultimate Rewards transfers to Aeroplan. These adjustments narrow the card’s appeal to those who can use the Air Canada-specific features while reducing rewards for everyday spending categories.
Practical Considerations for Cardholders
The refreshed card suits travelers who frequently fly Air Canada, redeem points for its flights, and can use the full statement credits. It also appeals to those who value automatic 25K status and the improved travel earning rate. For others who rely mainly on dining and grocery purchases or rarely book with the airline, the higher fee and reduced earning rates may make the card less attractive. Ultimately, the value depends on how much an individual can extract from the new Air Canada-focused perks relative to the increased annual cost. Frequent flyers aligned with the program’s direction stand to gain the most from the updated structure.
