Air Canada and Chase Announce Strategic Partnership for Exclusive Aeroplan U.S. Credit Card

Strategic Insights -

Air Canada, Canada's largest airline, has partnered with Chase, the largest co-brand card issuer, to relaunch its Aeroplan U.S. credit card. The new card, expected to launch in late 2021, will bring rich rewards and flexibility to U.S. customers through Air Canada's transformed Aeroplan loyalty program. The program offers unparalleled access to Air Canada and flight rewards with over 35 partner airlines. This strategic partnership marks a significant growth opportunity for both Air Canada and Chase, focusing on the over two million U.S. residents with strong ties on both sides of the border.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Aeroplan U.S. credit card will be exclusively issued by Chase, while Mastercard will serve as the exclusive payments network.
  • The new Aeroplan loyalty program offers increased flexibility, value, and access to Air Canada and over 35 partner airlines.
  • The partnership aims to drive significant growth and engagement among U.S. Aeroplan members, with a focus on the two million residents with strong ties on both sides of the border.
  • Aeroplan will become a transfer partner in Chase's Ultimate Rewards program in late 2021.
  • The new Aeroplan Credit Card from Chase is expected to launch in late 2021.
  • The partnership brings together Chase's strengths in digital innovation, customer service excellence, and world-class branding with Air Canada's transformed Aeroplan program.

Mark Nasr, Vice President, Loyalty and eCommerce, Air Canada, stated, "We are delighted to partner with Chase and Mastercard to relaunch our U.S. co-brand credit card. Chase's many strengths, including digital innovation, customer service excellence, and a world-class brand, will help us deliver a best-in-class product for US-based Aeroplan members."

Ed Olebe, President of Chase Co-Brand Cards, added, "We are thrilled to be partnering with Air Canada, a company we greatly admire, on a new credit card for U.S. consumers. We look forward to jointly offering innovative perks and flexible rewards delivered as part of the transformed Aeroplan loyalty program."

Linda Kirkpatrick, President, U.S. Issuers at Mastercard, emphasized, "Mastercard, Air Canada, and Chase share the same commitment to putting the cardholder at the center, providing meaningful experiences that support everyday spending and passion points. We look forward to working with these terrific partners to deliver a compelling value proposition that resonates with cardholders."

Statistics:

  • 2 million: The estimated number of U.S. residents with strong ties on both sides of the border, focused on by the partnership.
  • 51 million: The number of customers served by Air Canada in 2019.
  • 35: The number of partner airlines offering flight rewards through the Aeroplan program.
  • $3.2 trillion: The assets of JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM), the parent company of Chase.
  • 4,900: The number of branches operated by Chase in 38 states and the District of Columbia.
  • 16,000: The number of ATMs operated by Chase.

Sources:

  • Air Canada press release (2020)
  • Chase press release (2020)
  • Mastercard website
  • Air Canada website
  • JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM) press release (2020)