Do you have a stash of American Express Membership Rewards points gathering dust, dreaming of exotic getaways or cozy domestic flights? Well, you're in luck! Transferring your Amex points to Aeroplan, Air Canada's loyalty program, can unlock incredible travel opportunities. It's a fantastic way to maximize the value of your points, especially for those looking to fly within North America or to international destinations on Air Canada and its Star Alliance partners. Let's dive in and learn how to make those travel dreams a reality!
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility and Get Ready!
First things first, let's make sure you're set up for success.
Sub-heading: Are Your Amex Points Transferable?
Not all American Express cards earn Membership Rewards points that are eligible for transfer to airline partners like Aeroplan. Make sure your specific Amex card participates in the Membership Rewards program that allows point transfers. Cards enrolled in the "Select Tier" and "Choice by Membership Rewards Tier" of the program are generally not eligible for point transfers to Aeroplan. If you're unsure, check your Amex account online or call Amex customer service.
Sub-heading: Do You Have an Aeroplan Account?
This might seem obvious, but you'll need an active Aeroplan account. If you don't have one, it's quick and free to sign up on the Air Canada website. Make sure the name on your Aeroplan account exactly matches the name on your American Express Card Account. This is crucial for a smooth transfer!
Step 2: Navigate to the American Express Membership Rewards Portal
Now that you've confirmed your eligibility, let's head to the virtual hub where the magic happens.
Sub-heading: Logging In
Log in to your American Express online account. You'll typically find a "Rewards" or "Membership Rewards" section.
Locate the "Transfer Points" or "Frequent Travel Partners" section. The exact wording might vary slightly, but it's usually clear. This is where you'll see a list of all the airline and hotel partners Amex has relationships with.
Sub-heading: Finding Aeroplan
Once you're in the transfer section, you'll need to find Aeroplan in the list of partners. Aeroplan is a direct transfer partner with American Express, meaning you can transfer points at a 1:1 ratio in most cases (1,000 Membership Rewards points = 1,000 Aeroplan points).
Step 3: Link Your Aeroplan Account (If You Haven't Already)
Before you can transfer points, you'll likely need to link your Aeroplan account to your Amex Membership Rewards profile. This is typically a one-time setup.
Sub-heading: Adding Your Partner Account
Select Aeroplan from the list of transfer partners.
You'll be prompted to enter your Aeroplan account number. Double-check that you enter it correctly to avoid any delays or issues.
American Express will then need to verify your account details. This process can sometimes take up to 5 business days, so it's a good idea to link your accounts well in advance of when you plan to transfer points.
Sub-heading: Important Note on Account Names
As mentioned, the name on your American Express account must match the name on your Aeroplan account. If there's a discrepancy, your transfer may be delayed or rejected.
Step 4: Initiate the Points Transfer
Once your accounts are linked and verified, you're ready to make the transfer!
Sub-heading: Determining Your Transfer Amount
Enter the number of Membership Rewards points you wish to transfer. Transfers must typically be made in increments of 100 points, with a minimum transfer requirement of 1,000 points per transfer.
Consider your redemption goals. Have you found a specific flight you want to book with Aeroplan? Check the points required for that flight to ensure you transfer enough. Remember, point transfers are final and irreversible.
Sub-heading: Review and Confirm
Review the transfer details carefully. This includes the number of points, the transfer ratio (which is usually 1:1 for Aeroplan), and any terms and conditions.
Confirm your transfer request. You may receive a confirmation email from American Express.
Step 5: Verify the Transfer and Book Your Flight!
The final and most exciting step!
Sub-heading: Checking Your Aeroplan Account
While Amex states transfers can take up to 30 minutes, many users report them being instantaneous. Log in to your Aeroplan account on the Air Canada website or through the Air Canada app.
Check your Aeroplan point balance. Your newly transferred points should appear there. If they don't appear immediately, give it a little time, up to the stated 30 minutes. If it takes longer, refer to the "How long do American Express points take to transfer to Aeroplan?" FAQ below.
Sub-heading: Booking Your Aeroplan Reward Flight
Once your points are in your Aeroplan account, you can proceed with booking your desired flight!
Go to the Air Canada website or use the Air Canada app.
Select "Points" as your payment method when searching for flights.
Search for your desired itinerary.
Aeroplan uses a dynamic pricing model for Air Canada flights, meaning the points required can fluctuate based on demand. However, for flights on partner airlines, there's generally a fixed points schedule.
You can use your points to cover the base fare and even use points to offset taxes and fees (though this often yields a lower per-point value).
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my American Express Membership Rewards point balance?
You can check your American Express Membership Rewards point balance by logging into your Amex online account and navigating to the "Rewards" or "Membership Rewards" section.
How to join the Aeroplan program if I don't have an account?
You can join the Aeroplan program for free by visiting the Air Canada website and looking for the "Join Aeroplan" or "Sign Up" option.
How long do American Express points take to transfer to Aeroplan?
American Express states that transfers to Aeroplan can take up to 30 minutes, but they are often instantaneous.
How to find the best value for my Aeroplan points?
The best value for Aeroplan points is typically found when redeeming for business or first-class flights, especially on partner airlines with fixed redemption charts. Aim for around 1.5 to 2 cents per point or higher.
How to use Aeroplan points to cover taxes and fees?
During the booking process on the Air Canada website, after selecting your flight, you'll be given the option to use points to offset the taxes and fees. Be aware this may not always be the most optimal use of your points.
How to find Aeroplan transfer bonuses from American Express?
American Express occasionally offers transfer bonuses to Aeroplan (e.g., 10-20% extra points). Keep an eye on the "Amex Offers" section of your online account or subscribe to travel loyalty news websites for announcements.
How to book flights on Aeroplan partner airlines?
You can book flights on Aeroplan's Star Alliance and other partner airlines directly through the Air Canada website or app, just as you would for Air Canada flights.
How to combine Aeroplan points with other family members?
Aeroplan offers a "Family Sharing" program that allows up to eight family members to pool their points, making it easier to accumulate enough points for larger redemptions. You can set this up in your Aeroplan account online.
How to avoid Aeroplan point expiry?
Aeroplan points generally do not expire as long as you have an active Aeroplan-branded credit card (like an American Express Aeroplan Card) or have qualifying activity in your account at least once every 18 months.
How to contact American Express customer service for transfer issues?
If you encounter issues with your point transfer, you can contact American Express customer service through the number on the back of your card or via their online chat/messaging service.
