In a significant development for frequent travelers, Marriott Bonvoy and Aeroplan have strengthened their partnership to offer enhanced benefits to their respective loyalty program members. The expanded relationship between Marriott International travel program, Bonvoy, and Aeroplan. Aeroplan is a loyalty program operated by Air Canada and is designed to value and flexibility to members, reinforcing the longstanding collaboration between these two major brands.

New Benefits for Loyalty Members

The new agreement introduces reciprocal elite status recognition for members of both programs. Specifically, Aeroplan 50K, 75K, and Super Elite members will receive complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status. In return, Marriott Bonvoy Titanium Elite and Ambassador Elite members will be awarded complimentary Aeroplan 25K Status. To access these benefits, members must link their Marriott Bonvoy and Aeroplan accounts, enabling a status match across both programs.

This partnership also allows Aeroplan Elite Status Members to convert their Aeroplan points into Marriott Bonvoy points at a 1:1 ratio, providing greater flexibility in how they utilize their loyalty rewards. This is in addition to the existing ability for members to convert Marriott Bonvoy points into Aeroplan points at a 3:1 ratio. With these improved conversion options, members can enhance their travel experiences by using their points across a broader range of options, including stays at Marriott’s portfolio of over 30 brands and 10,000 destinations worldwide.

Benefits of Enhanced Status

Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status comes with a range of perks aimed at improving the travel experience, such as priority late checkout (subject to availability), room upgrades (subject to availability), and a 25% bonus on Marriott Bonvoy points for eligible stays. These benefits are intended to enhance the convenience and enjoyment of hotel stays for loyal Marriott customers.

On the other hand, Aeroplan 25K Status offers benefits such as priority airport services including check-in and boarding, two complimentary checked bags, eUpgrade credits for greater comfort during flights, and access to preferred seating options. These services provide an elevated experience for Aeroplan members, making air travel more efficient and comfortable.

A Focus on Value and Travel Experiences

Both Marriott International and Air Canada emphasize the value these enhanced benefits will bring to their members. David Flueck, Senior Vice President, Global Head, Loyalty, Cards and Enterprise Partnerships at Marriott International, highlighted that the partnership aims to make travel experiences more accessible and enjoyable for members. “Marriott Bonvoy members love to passionately explore cultures around the world, and together with Aeroplan, we are making aspirational destinations and incredible travel experiences more attainable and enjoyable for our members,” said Flueck.

Scott O’Leary, Vice President, Loyalty and Product at Air Canada, expressed similar enthusiasm about the expanded collaboration. He noted the convenience of being able to convert points and enjoy reciprocal status benefits, stating, “We’re thrilled to bring the best of Aeroplan and Marriott Bonvoy together for our members. Whether it’s topping up the points needed for a reward, or enjoying the benefits of Elite status, there’s a lot to be excited about.”

Analysis

Marriott’s decision to expand its partnership with Aeroplan is an interesting one. Marriott has only 16 hotels in Canada. I’m speculating Marriott wants to grow its presence in Canada. What better way than to partner with Canada’s largest airline? Of interest is also the status match each high tier gets to the respective lower tier. This partnership also matches Marriott’s existing partnership with United. This also makes Bonvoy unique that they have reciprocal status match with both UA & AC. It’s not surprising that Air Canada & Marriott are also partners considering both United & Air Canada  are members of Star Alliance. Hotels these days have been expanding or modifying their Airline partnerships. Hyatt made a major adjustment to its partnership with American.