Air Canada has updated its co-branded credit card for U.S. consumers, and the most notable change is automatic Aeroplan 25K elite status for cardholders. The adjustment raises the annual fee but adds meaningful travel perks that many frequent flyers value. The card is issued through Chase and remains available to American residents. ([1])
Core Card Features and Welcome Offer
New applicants can earn a substantial sign-up bonus of up to 115,000 Aeroplan points. This breaks down into 75,000 points after $4,000 in spending within the first three months and another 40,000 points after $20,000 in spending over the first year. The card also provides up to 25,000 status qualifying credits annually through a combination of holding the card and meeting spending thresholds. Cardholders earn between one and five points per dollar depending on the category, with the highest rates on Air Canada purchases, other travel, groceries, and dining through the end of 2026. Monthly spending bonuses of 500 points for every $2,000 spent remain available until the end of this year. The card carries no foreign transaction fees and includes standard travel protections such as trip delay and baggage insurance.
Automatic 25K Status and Its Immediate Perks
The standout benefit is complimentary Aeroplan 25K elite status that activates simply by keeping the card open. This level normally requires 25,000 status qualifying credits earned through flying, yet cardholders receive it without additional effort. The status grants priority check-in and boarding in Zone 2, preferred seat selection at check-in on eligible fares, and an extra free checked bag on Air Canada flights. Star Alliance Silver recognition accompanies the 25K tier, which extends similar priority services and an additional free bag on partner airlines such as United. Cardholders also receive five eUpgrade credits each year that can be applied toward premium cabin upgrades on Air Canada and select partners. A minimum of 250 Aeroplan points is guaranteed on every flight regardless of distance.
- Priority check-in, boarding, and customer service access
- Complimentary preferred seats on Standard and Flex fares
- One free checked bag plus the card’s separate free-bag allowance
- Five annual eUpgrade credits
- Star Alliance Silver recognition on partner airlines
Path to Higher Status and Ongoing Value
Cardholders can reach Aeroplan 35K status by spending $75,000 on the card in a calendar year. Additional status qualifying credits become available at $25,000 and $50,000 spending marks. These milestones also unlock options such as Maple Leaf Lounge guest passes or extra eUpgrade credits, though automatic 25K status alone does not trigger those extras. The card further provides up to $100 in annual statement credits for Air Canada purchases and a 15 percent discount on Aeroplan award tickets. Reimbursement for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or Nexus fees occurs every four years. These elements combine to offset the higher annual fee for travelers who use Air Canada or its Star Alliance partners at least occasionally.
Practical Considerations for Cardholders
The changes took effect recently, and existing cardholders saw their status updated automatically. Travelers who rarely fly Air Canada can still benefit from the points earning rates, travel protections, and the fourth-night-free hotel perk on Aeroplan redemptions. Those who value free bags, priority boarding, and occasional upgrades may find the card worthwhile even without regular long-haul flights on the airline. The product remains positioned as a straightforward way to obtain entry-level elite status without meeting traditional flying requirements.
