Starting today, Aeroplan members (Air Canada’s frequent flyer program) can accumulate and redeem miles with Etihad Airways.

Etihad Airways is the National airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) who currently operates flights to 76 destinations around the world, but expecting service to resume on other previous destinations.

Highlights

There are a few notes to keep in mind regarding Etihad flights:

• Fuel surcharges will not apply on Etihad operated flights.
• Etihad flights will be subject to our Fixed Mileage Flight Reward chart (see below).
• Members will be able to book Etihad flights online at aeroplan.com, as well as via our Contact Centre.
• Etihad flights can be combined with flights operated by Air Canada and our other international partners.

Award Chart

American Express Partnership Weakens

On a side note, this partnership also enhances Etihad’s existing relationship with Canada as you can convert American Express Membership Reward points to Etihad Airways. Considering that 1,000 Membership Rewards points = 750 Etihad Guest points (increments of 100 thereafter), there is an argument to be made that we are better off converting Membership Reward points to Aeroplan instead.

I have to add this in here, but I hope American Express ups their game rather than back away, because this is going to put some pressure on American Express’ partnership with Etihad, so looking forward to see how that plays out.

Thoughts

This is a big time GAME CHANGER to me with Aeroplan. This partnership has greatly increased the value of Aeroplan miles, especially since there are no fuel surcharges. I am really happy to see this happen!

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