Passengers of Air Canada can sign up for its frequent flyer programme called Aeroplan, completely free of charge. Points are earned in a similar way to other schemes, but the amount that you earn is contingent on more variables. Whereas other frequent flyer programmes have a flat rate of x amount of points per dollar spent or miles flown, Aeroplan takes into account factors like the demand for the flight or departure/destination city.

You can also earn points by shopping with Aeroplan credit cards, buying services from Air Canada’s partners - including Uber and Starbucks - or booking holiday services through the airline’s travel portal. Points can then be redeemed in a number of ways. Generally speaking, buying flights offers the best value for money, however, these aren’t the only options. You can also purchase cabin upgrades, gift cards, holiday experiences or donate to charity.

Those that find themselves flying with Air Canada regularly can become eligible for Elite Status. Once this is achieved, passengers can take advantage of a range of perks and benefits, from priority boarding to lounge access and free checked-in bags. There are three elements to qualifying.

 Status qualifying miles (SQM) - percentage of distance flown
 Status qualifying segments (SQS) - individual flights
 Status qualifying dollars (SQD) - a percentage of dollars spent on flights

Passengers need to achieve a certain level of SQM or SQS plus SQD in order to move through the ranks. The higher you go, the better the benefits and perks become.

Air Canada has three different types of fare, with even its basic offering providing a level of comfort not normally seen in economy.

Economy Class

 Free meals with wine and spirits
 Blankets and pillows
 USB charging port
 Private entertainment system
 One personal item and one carry-on
 Standard seating
 Last to board
 Allocated seats (can pay extra to choose)

Economy Premium

 Free meals with wine and spirits
 Blankets and pillows
 USB charging port
 Private entertainment system
 One personal item and one carry-on
 Two checked in bags (27kg)
 Larger seats (up to 38-inch pitch)
 Priority boarding
 Choose seats

Signature Class

 Free restaurant quality meals with wine and spirits
 Luxury bedding kit
 USB charging port
 Private entertainment system
 One personal item and one carry-on
 Two checked-in bags (32kg)
 Executive pods with lie-flat beds,
 Priority boarding
 Choose seats