Kudos has partnered with CardRatings and Red Ventures for our coverage of credit card products. Kudos, CardRatings, and Red Ventures may receive a commission from card issuers. Kudos may receive commission from card issuers. Some of the card offers that appear on Kudos are from advertisers and may impact how and where card products appear on the site. Kudos tries to include as many card companies and offers as we are aware of, including offers from issuers that don't pay us, but we may not cover all card companies or all available card offers. You don't have to use our links, but we're grateful when you do!
Aeroplan Credit Card Review: Soar to New Heights with Air Canada's Rewards Program
September 27, 2026
.webp)
The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired.
Updated Oct. 5, 2026: This review now reflects Chase's Sept. 10, 2026 refresh of the Aeroplan card, including the new $195 annual fee, updated earning rates, and new benefits. For what changes at renewal and whether to keep the card, see our breakdown of the Aeroplan annual fee increase.
What Is the Aeroplan Credit Card?
The Aeroplan® Credit Card is a travel rewards credit card issued by Chase and linked to Air Canada's Aeroplan loyalty program. You earn Aeroplan points on everyday purchases and redeem them for flights on Air Canada and its Star Alliance partners.
Chase refreshed the card on Sept. 10, 2026. The annual fee rose from $95 to $195, and the card added $100 in annual Air Canada credits, 15% off eligible Air Canada award flights, and automatic Aeroplan 25K status every year. New applicants pay $195 right away. Existing cardholders pay it at their first renewal dated Dec. 1, 2026 or later.
Earning Rates
- 3x points on travel, including purchases made directly with Air Canada
- 2x points on dining, including takeout and eligible delivery
- 2x points at grocery stores
- 2x points at gas stations
- 1x point on everything else
On eligible Air Canada flights, Aeroplan 25K members also earn 2x points from Air Canada, for up to 5x total. Existing cardholders keep 3x on dining and grocery through Dec. 31, 2026.
[[ SINGLE_CARD * {"id": "2891", "isExpanded": "true", "bestForCategoryId": "52", "bestForText": "Travel Rewards", "headerHint" : "Best for Frequent Air Canada Flyers" } ]]
Renewing soon? Here is what the $195 fee buys and what ends Dec. 31. Read the Aeroplan annual fee breakdown.
Aeroplan Credit Card Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Automatic Aeroplan 25K status every year, with no spending requirement
- $100 in Air Canada credits each year, issued as two $50 credits (January to June and July to December)
- 15% off eligible Air Canada award flights booked with points
- 3x points on travel, including Air Canada purchases
- Free first checked bag for you and up to eight companions on Air Canada
- Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS credit of up to $120 every four years
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons:
- $195 annual fee, not waived for the first year
- Dining and grocery earning drops from 3x to 2x for existing cardholders after Dec. 31, 2026
- The 500-point monthly spending bonus and the 10% bonus on Chase Ultimate Rewards transfers to Aeroplan end after Dec. 31, 2026
- Best value comes from redeeming for Air Canada and partner flights
The Aeroplan card's two $50 Air Canada credits reset every six months. Kudos tracks them alongside your other card credits, so an unused half-year credit does not expire unnoticed.
Who Is the Aeroplan Credit Card For?
The Aeroplan Credit Card is ideal for:
- Frequent Air Canada flyers: Those who fly Air Canada at least a couple of times a year can use both $50 credits, the free checked bags, and the 15% award discount.
- Canadian travelers: While available to U.S. residents, the card's benefits are particularly attractive to those who often travel to, from, or within Canada.
- Points enthusiasts: If you enjoy maximizing travel rewards and don't mind strategizing to get the best value from your points, this card could be a great fit.
- Aspiring elite status holders: The card now includes automatic Aeroplan 25K status every year, with priority check-in and boarding, and no spending threshold to keep it.
Comparing the Aeroplan Credit Card With Other Credit Cards
When considering the Aeroplan Credit Card, it's helpful to compare it with other popular options in the mid-tier travel card category:
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
[[ SINGLE_CARD * {"id": "509", "isExpanded": "false", "bestForCategoryId": "15", "bestForText": "Frequent Travelers", "headerHint": "Exceptional Travel Value"} ]]
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
[[ SINGLE_CARD * {"id": "438", "isExpanded": "true", "bestForCategoryId": "52", "bestForText": "Frequent Travelers", "headerHint" : "High Travel Rewards" } ]]
[[ SINGLE_CARD * {"id": "118", "isExpanded": "false", "bestForCategoryId": "15", "bestForText": "Frequent Travelers", "headerHint": "Generous Travel Rewards"} ]]
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
Each card offers unique benefits tailored to different spending habits and preferences. Consider your personal financial goals when choosing the best card for you.
Key Takeaways:
- The Aeroplan Credit Card is strongest for Air Canada flyers who will use its annual credits and 25K status
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® offers versatile travel rewards
- Capital One Venture provides simple, flat-rate miles earning
- American Express® Gold Card features strong dining and groceries rewards
Consider Using Kudos
While the Aeroplan Credit Card offers excellent benefits for Air Canada loyalists, it's essential to maximize your rewards across all your credit cards. This is where Kudos comes in handy. Kudos is a free AI-powered browser extension that helps you get the most out of your credit cards whenever you shop online.
With Kudos, you can:
- Receive personalized credit card recommendations for each purchase
- Earn rewards from over 15,000 stores
- Multiply your rewards up to 5X during exclusive "Flash Boost" events
- Discover new cards that align with your spending habits
If you're looking to get more out of your credit cards, Kudos is the best free shopping app to use when you shop online. And, they're currently offering $20 back after your first eligible purchase. Just sign-up for free with code "GET20" and make a purchase at a Boost merchant.
Our Expert Takeaway
The Aeroplan Credit Card is a solid choice for those deeply invested in the Air Canada ecosystem or frequently traveling to and within Canada. After the 2026 refresh, its value rests on Air Canada travel: automatic 25K status every year, $100 in Air Canada credits, free checked bags, and 15% off eligible award flights.
The $195 fee makes it a harder sell if you mainly valued the old 3x dining and grocery earning, which drops to 2x after Dec. 31, 2026. If you don't fly Air Canada regularly, a more flexible travel card will likely serve you better.
Remember, to truly maximize your credit card rewards across all your cards, consider using a tool like Kudos. It can help ensure you're always using the right card for each purchase, potentially boosting your overall rewards earning.
[[ SINGLE_CARD * {"id": "2891", "isExpanded": "true", "bestForCategoryId": "52", "bestForText": "Travel Rewards", "headerHint" : "Best for Frequent Air Canada Flyers" } ]]
Aeroplan Credit Card FAQ
What is the Aeroplan card annual fee?
The annual fee is $195. New applicants pay it right away, and existing cardholders pay it at their first renewal dated Dec. 1, 2026 or later. Before the Sept. 10, 2026 refresh, the fee was $95.
Does the Aeroplan card still earn 3x on dining and groceries?
Not for new cardholders. Dining and grocery now earn 2x. Existing cardholders keep 3x on dining and grocery through Dec. 31, 2026, then drop to 2x.
How many Aeroplan points do I need for a flight?
The number of Aeroplan points required for a flight varies based on destination, class of service, and demand. Short-haul flights within North America can start from 6,000 points, while long-haul business class flights can require 100,000+ points.
Can I transfer points from other programs to Aeroplan?
Yes, Aeroplan partners with several transferable points programs, including American Express Membership Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards.
Does the Aeroplan Credit Card offer travel insurance?
Yes, the card provides travel insurance benefits including trip cancellation/interruption insurance and auto rental collision damage waiver.
How do I redeem Aeroplan points?
You can redeem Aeroplan points through the Air Canada website or app for flights, upgrades, and other travel experiences.
Is there a fee for redeeming Aeroplan points?
There are no redemption fees for Aeroplan members when booking flight rewards online. However, phone bookings may incur a fee.
By leveraging the Aeroplan Credit Card wisely and potentially combining it with tools like Kudos, you can elevate your travel experiences and maximize your rewards. Always remember to compare card options and consider your personal travel goals before applying for any new credit card.
Unlock your extra benefits when you become a Kudos member
Turn your online shopping into even more rewards
Join over 500,000 members simplifying their finances
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
.webp)
