Aeroplan Changes 35K Elite Status Benefits [Effective June 2023]

Updated: October 26, 2022, 6:06pm CDT

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Air Canada Aeroplan 35K Elite Changes
Final Thoughts

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Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is a fan favorite in the points and miles community because it offers both a valuable award chart and solid elite status benefits for frequent flyers.

Starting June 1, 2023, Aeroplan’s second elite tier, known as 35K, is getting some changes. Whether you view the changes as positive or negative will come down to how you value the benefits that are being removed and those that are being added.

Here’s a look at everything you should know about these upcoming changes.

Air Canada Aeroplan 35K Elite Changes

Air Canada 787 Signature Class dining — Image Credit: Air Canada

Just a single benefit is being removed — but it’s a big one. As of June 1, 2023, Aeroplan 35K members will no longer receive Maple Leaf lounge access. If you’re someone who frequents Maple Leaf lounges before boarding your flight, losing this perk is a big blow. While you’ll still receive 2 one-time Maple Leaf lounge passes, these are sure to be used quickly if you travel with any regularity.

To soften the blow of axing lounge access for 35K members, Air Canada Aeroplan is adding the following perks to this elite tier:

15 eUpgrade credits, compared with the 10 that were offered previously, when you select these credits as a choice benefit after qualifying.
Priority Rewards Vouchers, which offer a 50% discount on an award ticket, will now be able to be used on flights to Mexico and the Caribbean.
Priority baggage handling

This certainly makes the priority reward vouchers more valuable, as they were previously limited to flights within Canada or between the U.S. and Canada. Further, if you highly value eUpgrade credits, then earning 50% more upon qualifying is a welcome addition.

On the 1 hand, given that most travelers value lounge access quite highly, you might not be too thrilled with the changes. On the other, if you have airport lounge access via another credit card then you might be fine swapping Maple Leaf lounge access for the added perks.

Hot Tip: Read through our comprehensive guide to learn everything you need to know about the Air Canada Aeroplan program.

Final Thoughts

As mentioned, travelers are likely to be split on the changes to the Aeroplan 35K status depending on how much they valued Maple Leaf lounge access, along with how they value the new benefits being added.

In any case, you have until June 1, 2023, until these changes take effect, so you can plan your elite status strategy heading into next year accordingly.