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Home » Credit Card Resources » Credit Card Reviews » Amex Aeroplan Reserve Card Review: Is the 85K Welcome Bonus Worth It?

Amex Aeroplan Reserve Card Review: Is the 85K Welcome Bonus Worth It?

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Britt Phoenix
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Aeroplan Reserve Card card image
Apply for the Aeroplan Reserve Card

Instant decision available with no impact to your credit score.

Aeroplan Reserve Card At a Glance

Best choice for: Premium Aeroplan Travel

Welcome Bonus
Up to 85,000 points
Top Earn Rate
3x on Air Canada purchases
Points Currency
Aeroplan miles
Annual Fee
$599/year
Target Market
Consumer
Card Style
Metal
Card Type
Credit Card

Quick Verdict

The Aeroplan Reserve Card is built for frequent Air Canada travellers who want more than just points. The real value comes from the airport perks, stronger Aeroplan benefits, and premium travel experience. The annual fee only makes sense if you fly often enough to use those benefits. If you do, this can be a very strong Aeroplan card.

Who It’s For

  • Frequent Air Canada travellers
  • Aeroplan members chasing premium perks
  • Travellers who value airport benefits
  • Cardholders with heavy Air Canada spending

How to Get Approved for the Aeroplan Reserve Card

Approval Difficulty

750+ (Very Good)

recommended credit score

Canada Credit Card Approval - Stricter Approval, Recommended 750+ (Very Good) Credit Score

Stricter Approval

Based on typical approval patterns in Canada.
Approval is not guaranteed.

How to get approved for an Amex card in Canada.

Requirements

  • Age of majority: Canadian resident, age 18 or 19+ depending on your province/territory
  • Credit history: 6+ months minimum credit history of low utilization and on-time payments
  • Income requirement: None publicly specified
  • Approval speed: Often instant with Amex Apply With Confidence
Apply Now

Instant decision available with no impact to your credit score.

Aeroplan Reserve Card Welcome Bonus Tracker

Track how today’s credit card welcome bonus compares against past offers, so you can apply with confidence.

Waiting for a better offer? Get Amex welcome bonus updates by email.

PointsWise Welcome Bonus Tracker - Tracking Credit Card Welcome Bonuses in Canada

Current Welcome Bonus

85,000

Aeroplan miles

You can earn up to 85,000 Aeroplan points: 60,000 points after spending $7,500 in the first 3 months. Plus, earn an additional 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $2,500 in purchases in month 13. That's up to $4,400 in value within your first 13 months.

Estimated Value

$1,700

at 2¢ per point

Aeroplan Reserve Card card image
Apply Now

Instant decision available with no impact to your credit score.

Low-End Typical Offer

This offer sits at the lower end of its typical range.

The Aeroplan Reserve Card is currently back at 85,000 points after dropping from the 150,000-point offer that launched in June 2026. That is a 65,000-point decrease, so the timing signal is much weaker than it was during the limited-time summer offer.

Based on the tracked history, 85,000 points is not an unusually weak offer for this card. It has appeared several times since 2022 and has effectively become the low end of the card’s recent typical range. The issue is that it sits far below the 150,000-point historical high and below stronger past offers of 110,000, 115,000, and 130,000 points.

This can still be a reasonable time to apply if you specifically want the premium Air Canada and Aeroplan benefits, can use the travel perks, and can comfortably meet the spending requirement without forcing extra purchases. If you are mainly chasing the welcome bonus, this is not a strong timing signal. Consider waiting for a better Aeroplan Reserve offer or comparing other Amex Canada cards with stronger current bonuses.

Current offer since Jul 2026
Historical high 150,000 miles
Last change Down 65,000 miles

Where The Aeroplan Reserve Card Welcome Bonus Sits Historically

This range compares the current public bonus against the lowest, typical, and highest offers PointsWise has tracked for the Aeroplan Reserve Card.

Historical Low 50,000 miles
Typical Range 85,000 - 110,000 miles
Historical High 150,000 miles
85,000 miles Current Offer

History available since 2019

Updated Aug 4, 2026

Aeroplan Reserve Card Welcome Bonus History

See how the Aeroplan Reserve Card welcome bonus has changed over time, including confirmed snapshots when the public offer stayed the same.

Welcome Bonus Events - Card Reviews v1

Offer snapshots indicate dates when the public welcome bonus was confirmed unchanged.

Why it matters

Credit card welcome bonuses change often. This tracker helps you compare today’s offer against past public offers before you apply.

Compare before you apply.

See whether today’s welcome bonus is low, typical, or unusually strong for this card.

Decide whether waiting to apply makes sense.

A past high offer is useful context, but it may not return soon.

Understand offer snapshots

Snapshot bars show when a public bonus was confirmed unchanged, not when a new offer launched.

Ready to Apply or Compare Offers?

Apply with confidence.

Aeroplan Reserve Card card image
Apply for the Aeroplan Reserve Card

Instant decision available with no impact to your credit score.

Amex Welcome Bonus History Tracker in Canada Since 2019
Compare welcome bonuses

View and compare offers across all cards.

Aeroplan Reserve Card Earn Rates

3x
Air Canada purchases

Earn 3 Aeroplan points per $1 spent on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada. Exclusions include purchases made via third-party websites, travel agents, vacation packages from other merchants, Air Canada gift cards, Maple Leaf Club memberships, and transactions through other merchants on the Air Canada website (e.g., hotels or car rentals).

2x
food & drinks

Earn 2 Aeroplan points per $1 spent at restaurants, quick service restaurants, coffee shops, and drinking establishments in Canada, as well as food delivery services whose primary business is food delivery (excluding groceries).

1.25x
everything else

Earn 1.25 points per $1 on all other eligible purchases.

Aeroplan Points

The value of your points depends on how you use them. Here’s what you can realistically expect.

How to Redeem Aeroplan Points

Search for Flights
Go to Air Canada and search for flights. Select “Book with Aeroplan points” to see where your points can take you.
Pick the Right Redemption
For the best value, choose flights where the cash value is high. You’ll get better value on first and business class cabins, and long-haul flights.
Add a Stopover
Add a stopover for 5,000 points and turn a one-way flight into a multi-city trip.
Pay Taxes & Fees
You’ll still pay applicable taxes and fees, even when you redeem with points.

Aeroplan Points Value

Typical Value (When Used Well)

1.2¢ - 2.5¢ per point

Best Use

Long-haul and premium cabin flights.

Example

70,000 Aeroplan points> $1,400 flight (cash price)= 2¢ per point

High-Value Potential

4¢+ per point For premium cabin redemptions on long-haul international flights.

Quick Insight

Aeroplan points give you the most value when cash prices are high. Value drops on shorter flights and when seats are limited.

Aeroplan Reserve Card Benefits

A closer look at the benefits, travel rewards, and everyday extras that come with the Aeroplan Reserve Card.

27 total benefits

Featured Benefits

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge Access

Elevate your travel experience with exclusive access to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Cafes - unwind with comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, and Wi-Fi before your flight.

Fly Together with the Annual Worldwide Companion Pass

Receive one Annual Worldwide Companion Pass when you spend $25,000 in net purchases prior to your Card anniversary date.

First Checked Bag Free

Enjoy your eligible first checked bag free for up to 9 people travelling on the same reservation on Air Canada flights.

Aeroplan Elite Status Benefits

Earn Status Qualifying Credits through eligible card spending, receive a 10% head start toward Aeroplan Elite Status starting in 2027, and get extended eUpgrade validity if you hold eligible Aeroplan Elite Status.

Air Canada Priority Travel Benefits

Enjoy a smoother Air Canada travel experience with priority check-in, priority boarding, priority baggage handling, priority airport standby, and higher priority for eligible airport upgrades.

Explore All Benefits

Travel Benefits20 benefits

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge Access

Elevate your travel experience with exclusive access to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Cafes - unwind with comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, and Wi-Fi before your flight.

Priority Pass Lounge Membership

Benefit from Priority Pass Lounge Membership - access over 1,700 lounges worldwide with a convenient pay-per-visit option to enhance your travel experience.

Fly Together with the Annual Worldwide Companion Pass

Receive one Annual Worldwide Companion Pass when you spend $25,000 in net purchases prior to your Card anniversary date.

First Checked Bag Free

Enjoy your eligible first checked bag free for up to 9 people travelling on the same reservation on Air Canada flights.

Preferred Flight Pricing

Unlock exclusive savings with Preferred Cardmember Pricing and enjoy lower Aeroplan flight reward prices.

Priority Check-In

Skip the lines with Priority Check-In and enjoy a faster, smoother airport experience every time you fly.

Priority Boarding

Board with ease using Priority Boarding - get settled sooner and start your journey comfortably.

Priority Baggage Handling

Get your bags faster with Priority Baggage Handling - your luggage is among the first to arrive, so you can be on your way sooner.

Priority Airport Standby

With Priority Airport Standby, when a seat becomes available on a full-capacity flight, you'll have priority access over other travellers with the same Aeroplan status and fare type.

Priority Airport Upgrades

Enjoy Priority Airport Upgrades - Elite or Super Elite Aeroplan members receive higher priority for eUpgrades, securing available seats ahead of others with the same status.

Explore the World with Aeroplan

Enjoy priority boarding, preferred seating, and access to Air Canada's global network of 1,300+ destinations through its 45+ airline partners.

Reach Aeroplan Elite Status Faster

Get 1,000 Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) for every $5,000 in eligible net purchases charged to your Card, up to a combined maximum of 25,000 SQC per Aeroplan Member per calendar year across eligible Aeroplan credit cards.

10% Head Start Toward Aeroplan Elite Status

Starting January 1, 2027, eligible cardmembers with Aeroplan 25K Status or higher can receive a 10% head start toward Elite Status qualification based on the Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) they accumulated in the previous calendar year.

Extended eUpgrade Validity

Eligible Aeroplan Elite Status Members who hold an Aeroplan premium credit card can receive extended eUpgrade validity of 24 months from the date of issuance, plus higher priority on airport upgrade and standby lists.

Get Extra Hotel Nights with Aeroplan

Aeroplan Cardmembers can get an extra hotel night free for every 3 consecutive hotel nights redeemed with Aeroplan points in one reservation, including 1 extra night free when redeeming 3 nights or 2 extra nights free when redeeming 6 nights.

Important note: Must redeem consecutive hotel nights with Aeroplan points in one reservation.

Avis President's Club Status

Enjoy Avis President's Club benefits, including two-car-class upgrades, expedited service, a dedicated phone line, and more.

Access to Pearson Priority Security Lane

Enjoy expedited security clearance at Toronto Pearson Airport.

Complimentary Valet Service at Toronto Pearson Airport

Enjoy complimentary valet service at the Express Park and Daily Park (Terminal 1) at Toronto Pearson Airport.

Parking Discount at Toronto Pearson Airport

Receive a 15% discount on parking at Express Park (Terminal 1) and Daily Park (Terminal 1 & 3)

Car Care Discount at Toronto Pearson Airport

Enjoy a 15% discount on car cleaning and detailing services at Toronto Pearson Airport (Terminal 1.)

Redemption Options1 benefit

Unlock More with Aeroplan Points

Redeem your points for Air Canada flights, cabin upgrades, in-flight Wi-Fi, and more. Enjoy flexibility with options like hotels, car rentals, and exclusive experiences.

Credit Rewards1 benefit

NEXUS Credit ($100)

Receive up to $100 in statement credits every four years when NEXUS application or renewal fees are charged to your Card.

Amex Experiences3 benefits

Front of the Line Presale Access

Enjoy exclusive early access to presale tickets with Front of the Line access and get your seats to the hottest concerts, shows, and events before the general public.

Exclusive Access

Make every night out unforgettable and breeze through dedicated entrances at the Budweiser Stage, relax in premium lounges, and enjoy priority service at top venues like Massey Hall and Mirvish Theatres.

Amex Experiences

Cardmembers get access to a variety of special offers created just for American Express. From advance screenings of blockbuster movies, to weekend getaway packages and special online and in-store shopping deals, it's never been easier to have an experience you'll never forget.

Member Extras1 benefit

Amex Offers

Save on everyday purchases with Amex Offers and enjoy exclusive discounts and rewards at your favourite stores, restaurants, and online shops. New offers are always being added, so be sure to check your account regularly.

Card Design1 benefit

Metal Card Design

Stand out with the sophisticated look and feel of an American Express metal card - durable, elegant, and designed to impress.

Aeroplan Reserve Card Insurance Coverage

Here’s a closer look at the insurance coverage included with the Aeroplan Reserve Card, including travel, purchase, rental car, mobile device, and other protections where applicable.

Coverage amounts, eligibility, and exclusions vary by card. Always review the certificate of insurance before relying on a benefit.

Travel Insurance

9 coverages

Purchase & Warranty Coverage

2 coverages

Rental Car Coverage

1 coverage

Explore Insurance Coverage

Travel Insurance9 coverages

Emergency Medical Insurance

Stay protected with up to $5,000,000 in emergency medical coverage for eligible expenses when travelling outside your province or country. Coverage applies for the first 15 days of each trip (for insured persons under 65).

Up to $5,000,000

Trip Cancellation Insurance

Get up to $1,500 per person (maximum $3,000 per trip) reimbursed for non-refundable travel expenses if you need to cancel for a covered reason, as long as you charged the costs to your card before departure.

Up to $3,000 per trip

Trip Interruption Insurance

Receive up to $1,500 per person (up to $6,000 total per trip) for non-refundable, unused travel expenses if your trip is interrupted or delayed for a covered reason, as long as you booked with your card.

Up to $6,000 per trip

Flight Delay Insurance

If your flight is delayed by four hours or more, receive up to $1,000 in coverage for essential expenses like lodging, meals, and sundry items. Simply charge your airline ticket to your card to activate this benefit.

Up to $1,000

Baggage Delay Insurance

Get up to $1,000 in coverage for emergency purchases of essential items if your checked baggage is delayed by six or more hours on your outbound trip.

Up to $1,000

Lost or Stolen Baggage Insurance

Protect your belongings with coverage of up to $1,000 per trip for lost or damaged checked and carry-on baggage when you charge your airline tickets to your card.

Up to $1,000

Hotel Burglary Insurance

Get up to $1,000 coverage for personal items lost due to hotel room burglary when you fully book and pay for your stay with your card (excludes cash).

Up to $1,000

Travel Accident Insurance

Provides up to $500,000 in Accidental Death and Dismemberment insurance when you charge your fare on a common carrier to your card. Coverage extends to you, your spouse, dependent children under 23, and even supplementary cardholders and their families.

Up to $500,000

Travel Emergency Assistance

Get peace of mind with 24/7 access to emergency medical and legal referrals when you're out of town. Connect by phone anytime, day or night, for assistance wherever you are.

24/7 assistance
Purchase & Warranty Coverage2 coverages

Automatic Purchase Protection

Get 90 days of automatic protection, covering up to $1,000 per incident for eligible purchases with coverage for accidental damage or theft, even if other insurance doesn't apply.

Up to $1,000

Extended Warranty with Buyer's Assurance Protection Plan

Doubles the original manufacturer's warranty by up to two additional years on eligible purchases made with your card. Coverage is valid in Canada and the U.S., with protection up to $10,000 per item and $25,000 annually.

Up to $25,000 annually
Rental Car Coverage1 coverage

Car Rental Theft and Damage Insurance

Provides automatic coverage for car rental theft and damage when you charge your rental to your card and decline the rental company's insurance. With protection for vehicles valued up to $85,000.

Up to $85,000

Aeroplan Reserve Card Fees & Rates

A quick look at the Aeroplan Reserve Card's annual fee, interest rates, and other common charges.

Annual Fee

$599 /year

Foreign Transaction Fee

2.50%

Applies to purchases in non-Canadian currencies.

Purchase Interest

21.99%

Applies when you carry a balance on purchases.

Cash Advance Rate

21.99%

Applies to cash advances and certain non-purchase transactions.

Detailed Fee Breakdown

Annual Fee
$599/year
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.50%
Purchase Interest
21.99%
Cash Advance Rate
21.99%
Full Benefits Additional Card Fee
$199 per additional card
Limited Benefits Additional Card Fee
$0 for No Fee Cards
Penalty APR
25.99% - 29.99% Variable
Balance Transfer Rate
N/A
Intro Balance Transfer Rate
N/A

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Aeroplan Reserve Card
View the current offer for the Aeroplan Reserve Card Aeroplan Reserve Card offer
Earn up to 85,000 miles.
Instant decision available with no impact to your credit score.
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