Air Canada Cuts Lounge Access for Aeroplan Elite 35k Members

Air Canada's recent announcement of cutting lounge access for Aeroplan Elite 35k members has caused concern among frequent flyers who rely on this benefit. This move is a significant devaluation of the loyalty program benefits and could impact Aeroplan's reputation among its most loyal customers.

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Air Canada has announced that Aeroplan Elite 35K members will no longer have access to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges as of June 1, 2023. This change applies to members who achieve 35K status on or after March 15, 2022. This is a significant downgrade in benefits for the program’s most loyal frequent flyers.

As a result of this announcement, many Aeroplan members are expressing disappointment and frustration with Air Canada’s decision. Aeroplan Elite 35K members are now losing a significant perk that made the program worthwhile, especially for those who frequently travel on Air Canada



Air Canada’s Lounge Access Changes for Elite 35k Members

The changes to Aeroplan Elite 35k status, specifically the reduction in lounge access benefits, have generated concern and frustration among frequent flyers. While Elite 50k and Super Elite 100k members will continue to have unlimited lounge access, Elite 35k members will see a significant reduction in their benefits. Domestic lounge access will be eliminated, and international lounge access will be limited to one guest. This means that members who have earned Elite 35k status based on their loyalty and travel will now have to pay for lounge access or rely on credit card benefits.

The Implications for Frequent Flyers

The changes to Aeroplan Elite 35k status and lounge access benefits may have significant implications for frequent flyers. For many, lounge access is a key factor in their loyalty program decision-making. The reduction in lounge access benefits may lead some members to consider switching to other airlines or loyalty programs that offer more attractive benefits. It may also make travel less comfortable and efficient for those who rely on lounge access to work or relax before flights.

New Benefits for Aeroplan Elite 35K Members

In recognition of this major perk being taken away, Air Canada is offering some new benefits for Aeroplan Elite 35K members, which will take effect on January 1, 2023. These benefits include the ability to upgrade to Air Canada Signature Class using Aeroplan points and a 25% increase in Aeroplan points earned on flights.

Additionally, Aeroplan Elite 35K members will also receive the following benefits:

  • Priority airport services, including check-in, baggage handling, security clearance, and boarding
  • Dedicated customer service phone line
  • Free checked bags

While these new benefits may be a small consolation for the loss of lounge access, they do provide some added value for Aeroplan Elite 35K members.

Air Canada’s Response

In response to criticism from frequent flyers, Air Canada has defended its decision to reduce lounge access benefits for Elite 35k members. The airline stated that the changes were made in response to customer feedback and to better align with other airlines’ loyalty program offerings.

while the airline hasn’t directly stated it overcrowding is likely the reason for this change. The airline wants to improve the overall lounge experience for its customers and ensure that those who have paid for lounge access have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

However, some critics have pointed out that Air Canada has been selling access to its lounges to other airlines, leading to increased congestion. This has created overcrowding in lounges and a decline in the overall experience for everyone, including Aeroplan Elite 35K members.

Conclusion

Air Canada’s decision to reduce lounge access benefits for Elite 35k members has generated significant concern and disappointment among frequent flyers. For many, lounge access is a key benefit of their loyalty program status and a significant factor in their decision-making. The reduction in lounge access benefits may have implications for frequent flyers, leading some to consider switching to other airlines or loyalty programs. Air Canada’s response to criticism from frequent flyers may indicate that the airline is willing to listen to feedback and make changes to its loyalty program offerings in the future.

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Dan
Dan
Travelling on Points is the brainchild of a person who loves to travel and reap the benefits of doing so. Dan enjoys sharing the knowledge of travel as he believes that the more people travel the less narrow-minded, and more tolerant, people will be of each other.

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