Air Canada’s Aeroplan loyalty program has expanded its airline partnerships, now including Latvian carrier airBaltic. This addition allows members to redeem points for flights across airBaltic’s network, though point-earning opportunities are not currently available. The move enhances Aeroplan’s redemption flexibility, particularly for travel within Europe and the surrounding regions.
Expanding Aeroplan’s Network
Aeroplan members can now book airBaltic flights online via aircanada.com or through the call center. Flights can be combined with other partner airlines, including those within the Star Alliance and beyond. While standard partner booking fees apply (39 CAD), there are no carrier-imposed surcharges. This means Aeroplan points can now be used for travel to dozens of destinations in Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and the Caucasus, operated by airBaltic’s fleet of over 50 Airbus A220s.
Award Pricing and Value
Award pricing follows Aeroplan’s standard partner chart. For example, flights under 1,000 miles (like Tallinn to Riga) cost 7,500 points in economy or 15,000 in business class. Longer flights (over 1,000 miles), such as Vilnius to Dubai, require 25,000 points in economy or 45,000 in business class.
The new partnership’s value lies in both competitive pricing and route access. Aeroplan’s pricing can be more favorable compared to other programs like Air France-KLM Flying Blue. For example, a Vilnius-Dubai flight costs 45,000 Aeroplan points versus 53,500 Flying Blue points.
The Benefit of Combined Awards
The key advantage of Aeroplan’s partnership with airBaltic is the ability to combine awards. This lets travelers create complex itineraries using multiple airlines on a single ticket, optimizing travel routes and point usage. This flexibility is especially valuable given airBaltic’s strong network in Northern Europe, where direct service options may be limited.
Context and Implications
airBaltic operates in a region heavily affected by recent geopolitical shifts, including airspace restrictions following the closure of Russian airspace to EU carriers. The airline has adapted by wet leasing planes to other operators. The partnership with Aeroplan provides a new revenue stream and expands redemption options for Aeroplan members. Lufthansa Group’s recent minority stake in airBaltic further stabilizes the carrier’s long-term outlook.
The addition of airBaltic underscores Aeroplan’s strategy of maximizing airline partnerships to offer diverse redemption opportunities. This move strengthens Aeroplan’s position in the loyalty program landscape by providing more value for its members, especially those seeking travel within Northern and Eastern Europe.
The expanded partnership represents a practical benefit for travelers, allowing for more accessible and potentially cheaper award redemptions in a region with otherwise limited options.
