Analyzing Air Canada’s New Revenue-Based Points Earning Model

With Air Canada’s announcement that it’s adopting a revenue-based model in 2026, earning Aeroplan points on flights is going to look a lot different for passengers compared to now.

In this article, I’ll share my thoughts on who stands to benefit from Air Canada’s new revenue-based model for earning points (as well as who will earn less), illustrated with examples. Plus, I’ll also share my views on how you can earn more Aeroplan points regardless of your flying activity.

Prior to reading this article, I recommend reading through our comprehensive guide to all of the changes that are set to take effect next year, as you’ll want to have all of those details fresh in your mind for this analysis.

Who Benefits from Revenue-Based Points Earning Models?

First up, let’s have a quick discussion about who benefits from revenue-based models (i.e., what Air Canada is moving to in 2026) instead of distance- and fare-based models (i.e., what Air Canada uses now).

As the name of the model suggests, revenue-based models benefit you more as you spend more and engage with the airline and its partners. Plain and simple.

Indeed, this sentiment is reflected in what Scott O’Leary, Vice President, Loyalty & Product at Air Canada, had to say about these changes in Air Canada’s press release:

“Aeroplan has grown into one of the most rewarding and widely used travel loyalty programs,”said Scott O’Leary, Vice President, Loyalty & Product at Air Canada. “Our most engaged members do more than just fly with us—they earn with our partners, choose flexible fares, and carry Aeroplan credit cards. These changes help us better recognize their loyalty and keep improving the experience.”

In other words, the move to this revenue-based model will reward Aeroplan’s most engaged members for choosing to fly with Air Canada, engaging with its partners, and holding an Aeroplan co-branded credit card.

From a practical perspective, the move to a revenue-based model will likely mean:

• If you’re someone who prefers to find the lowest price, you’ll likely earn fewer points than before (and have a harder time qualifying for Elite status)
• If you’re someone who travels on lower economy fares on long-haul routes, you’ll likely earn fewer points than before (and have a harder time…