North American carrier Air Canada and middle eastern carrier Emirates released some major news this week. The two airlines have launched a joint loyalty programme partnership. Let’s take a closer look at what this will translate to for frequent flyers and other passengers.
The News About Emirates and Air Canada’s Loyalty Programmes
The airlines struck a deal that marks a very close collaboration between the two loyalty programmes:
- Emirates’ Skywards frequent flyer programme
- Air Canada’s Aeroplan frequent flyer programme
What this translates to is that passengers flying on these two airlines will be able to accrue miles in full for the Skywards or Aeroplan programme. Clearly passengers will also be able to redeem and pay for flights on both Air Canada and Emirates with their miles.
This is quite a big privilege for Air Canada’s Aeroplan members, as they’ll be able to claim miles on flights to the over 130 destinations Emirates serves worldwide.
However certainly this agreement will be greatly appreciated also by Skywards members. Particularly for those who travel frequently to North America. Air Canada will power up significantly its operations in 2023, meaning more opportunities to build up miles.
How Will Lounge Access Work?
Lounge access is another aspect we must look into when two loyalty programmes join forces as Skywards and Aeroplan have just done. More specifically:
- At Dubai International Airport (DXB) Aeroplan Elite 50K, 75K and Super Elite members travelling in Economy Class will have access to Emirates’ Emirates Business Class Lounge along with one guest.
- While at Toronto’s Pearson Airport (YYZ) Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members travelling in Economy Class with Air Canada or Emirates will also enjoy complimentary access to Air Canada’s Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Café.
Clearly passengers travelling in premium cabin already have access to lounges. If you haven’t signed up to either programme and wish to, you can do it online on the airlines’ sites or requesting a form on your next flight.
