American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card Review: Is It Worth It?
The American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card is a premium metal credit card that allows cardmembers to earn Aeroplan points with each purchase. Air Canada’s Aeroplan is one of the country’s most popular loyalty programs for travel rewards. Points can be redeemed for a variety of items, including flights, hotel stays, car rentals and merchandise.
View details
Points on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations.
Points on eligible Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada.
Points on on everything else.
This top-shelf Aeroplan card offers 3x points on purchases made with Air Canada — the highest Aeroplan earn rate on the market. Comprehensive insurance coverage, annual companion passes and priority airport services add to the luxe factor, but the hefty $599 annual fee may be more than some cardholders are willing to spend. Best for: Air Canada enthusiasts who want to maximize their Aeroplan point accumulation.
Pros
- Up to 3x points on eligible dollars spent.
- Free Maple Leaf Lounge access, plus a complimentary Priority Pass membership.
- Free checked bags.
- Priority check-in, boarding and baggage handling.
Cons
- Steep $599 annual fee.
- Priority airport services only apply to Air Canada itineraries.
- Pay-per use rates apply to Priority Pass lounges.
- New American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Cardmembers can earn up to 85,000 Aeroplan points.
- Earn 60,000 Aeroplan points after spending $7,500 in purchases on your Card within the first 3 months.
- Plus, earn an additional 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $2,500 in purchases in month 13
- You could earn up to $4,400 in value within your first 13 months. When you combine the Welcome Bonus offer of up to $1,700 in value, your earn potential in accelerated and everyday spend earn rate categories with approximately $1,760 in value, and the $1,000 in value you get from exceptional benefits, you can earn up to $4,400 or more in value within your first 13 months. Terms and usage assumptions apply.
- Cardmembers can now get an extra night free for every 3 hotel nights redeemed with Aeroplan points. Enjoy even more at over 300,000 hotel properties worldwide
- Receive up to $100 CAD in statement credits every four years when a NEXUS application or renewal fee is charged to your American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card
- Highest Air Canada earn rate on an Aeroplan payment card in Canada: Earn 3X the points on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada®* and Air Canada Vacations®*.
- Standard Earn Rate: Earn 2X the points on eligible Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada and earn 1.25X the points on everything else.
- Get through the airport quicker with Air Canada Priority Check-In, Air Canada Priority Boarding and Air Canada Priority Baggage Handling.
- Receive one Annual Worldwide Companion Pass when you spend $25,000 in net purchases prior to your Card anniversary date; your Pass entitles you to buy an accompanying Air Canada economy class ticket for a companion at a fixed base fare from $99 to a maximum of $599 CAD (plus taxes, fees, charges, and surcharges)
- Enjoy access to select Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges™* and Air Canada Café™ in North America for you and a guest, with a same day ticket on a departing Air Canada or Star Alliance flight.
- Enjoy your eligible first checked bag free for up to 9 people travelling on the same reservation on Air Canada flights.
- Get a 10% Head Start. Starting in 2027, eligible Basic Cardmembers with Aeroplan Elite™* Status will receive a 10% head start toward qualification, based on Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) accumulated the year before. Roll over any unallocated unused eUpgrade Credits to the following year to enjoy during your travels
- Get access to more than 1,200 Priority Pass™ airport lounges and enjoy an oasis of comfort before your flight, regardless of your airline or cabin class.
- Amex Experiences™ opens doors for you to access a number of special events, including special dining experiences, VIP parties, advance film screenings and more
- Get more from your travel experience at Toronto Pearson International Airport with:
- Access to Pearson Priority Security Lane
- Complimentary valet service at the Express Park and Daily Park
- 15% discount on parking rates at the Express Park and Daily Park
- 15% discount on Car Care Services
- Insurance Coverage: whether you’re shopping nearby or travelling abroad, you can feel confident knowing you can be taken care of.
- American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card is made from precision cut and engraved 13g metal – it’s the perfect companion on your next exceptional journey
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card full review
The American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card comes with a hefty price tag, but the impressive suite of travel perks may make it worth it.
Because of the perks involved, such as airport lounge access, priority boarding and 3x the Aeroplan points on Air Canada purchases, the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card is best suited for frequent Air Canada travellers who will be able to squeeze enough value from the card to offset its steep annual fee.
Extensive travel perks, including a free first checked bag and priority check-in services for you and up to eight travelling companions; access to select Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges; and complimentary valet service at Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Robust suite of travel protection benefits. The insurance provided, which includes lost baggage, emergency medical, trip cancellation and hotel burglary coverage, should provide peace of mind while you’re on the road — or in the air.
Access to Amex Experiences™, a collection of dining, shopping and special events, and American Express Front Of The Line, which helps cardmembers score presale and reserved tickets for concerts and more.
American Express cards may not be as readily accepted by retailers as Visa and Mastercard.
The card’s annual fee of $599 may be too high for some. In contrast, the American Express® Aeroplan®* Card offers fewer travel perks but charges a lower annual fee.
The 3x the Aeroplan points earn rate on Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations only applies if you book directly through the airline. Book through a third-party site or a travel agent and those extra points won’t be awarded.
Is American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card worth it?
If you regularly take to the skies with Air Canada, getting your money’s worth out of the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card won’t take long.
Take a few flights with a travelling companion, for example, and you could save hundreds of dollars on checked bags and lounge access. And if you’re a regular Air Canada traveller, the increased earn rate on direct purchases with the airline can really boost your Aeroplan point totals.
The Amex Aeroplan Reserve Card’s included insurance coverage is expansive, too, and can be invaluable if something goes awry the next time you’re on the road.
American Express customer ratings
High in customer satisfaction: American Express ranks first out of 14 issuers in J.D. Power’s 2025 Canada Credit Card Satisfaction Study.
Low Trustpilot rating: American Express received 1.4 out of 5 possible stars based on over 4,800 customer reviews, as of this writing.
Low Better Business Bureau rating: American Express received 1.1 out of 5 possible stars based on more than 550 customer reviews, as of this writing.
American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card eligibility
Who qualifies for the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card?
To apply for the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card, you must:
Be at least the age of majority in your province.
Be a Canadian resident.
Have a credit file in Canada.
There is no publicly available minimum income requirement for the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card
Approximate credit score needed for approval
Canadian credit card issuers rarely disclose required credit scores, which makes it hard to know your chances of approval when comparing credit cards. However, higher scores generally mean better chances of approval, and that’s true regardless of the type of credit you’re applying for.
Want to learn more? Visit our “What Credit Score is Needed for a Credit Card?” page.
American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card rewards
Earn up to 85,000 Aeroplan points in the first 13 months of card ownership.
Earn 60,000 points after you spend $7,500 in purchases on your Card within the first 3 months.
Plus, earn an additional 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $2,500 in purchases in month 13.
According to American Express, that's up to $1,700 or more in value — at least when you combine your welcome bonus points and card benefits.
3x Aeroplan points on Air Canada bookings.
2x points on dining and food delivery purchases.
1.25x points on everything else.
You could get up to $4,400 in value (per American Express) from the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card in your first 13 months by maximizing the welcome bonus, perks, and earn rates. Here’s how Amex arrives at that figure:
Up to $1,700 in value from the welcome bonus offer of up to 85,000 Aeroplan points, assuming a redemption value of 2¢ per point (based on American Express data from Cardmember redemptions between January 2021 and September 2024).
Approximately $1,760 in value from accelerated and everyday earn rate categories.
Around $1,000 in potential value through card benefits.
That totals over $4,400 in potential value, according to Amex. This estimate does not include the card’s annual fee and assumes you meet the offer’s terms and usage conditions.
By comparison, using NerdWallet’s more conservative Aeroplan point valuation of 1.6¢ per point, the 85,000-point welcome bonus works out to about $1,360 — still enough to outweigh the card’s annual fee.
Aeroplan point value breakdown
NerdWallet searched more than 50 flights in 2024 to determine the average value for Air Canada flights. Based on our analysis, the average value of one Aeroplan point is worth 1.60 cents.
More specifically, you can expect to get around
1.29 cents in value per Aeroplan point for economy class awards on Air Canada.
1.80 cents in value per Aeroplan point for business class awards on Air Canada flights.
Based on this data, if the value of your redemption is worth at least 1.29 cents per point, then you should book your flight on points. If the value you’re getting falls below this threshold, you’re better off paying cash and saving your points.
Rewards calculator: See how many points you can earn
American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card vs The Gold Card from American Express
The American Express® Gold Rewards Card shares several comparable benefits with the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card but has a lower annual fee.
Rewards breakdown
Rewards breakdownPoints on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations.
Points on eligible Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada.
Points on on everything else.
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeThis top-shelf Aeroplan card offers 3x points on purchases made with Air Canada — the highest Aeroplan earn rate on the market. Comprehensive insurance coverage, annual companion passes and priority airport services add to the luxe factor, but the hefty $599 annual fee may be more than some cardholders are willing to spend. Best for: Air Canada enthusiasts who want to maximize their Aeroplan point accumulation.
Pros
- Up to 3x points on eligible dollars spent.
- Free Maple Leaf Lounge access, plus a complimentary Priority Pass membership.
- Free checked bags.
- Priority check-in, boarding and baggage handling.
Cons
- Steep $599 annual fee.
- Priority airport services only apply to Air Canada itineraries.
- Pay-per use rates apply to Priority Pass lounges.
Card details
Card details- New American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Cardmembers can earn up to 85,000 Aeroplan points.
- Earn 60,000 Aeroplan points after spending $7,500 in purchases on your Card within the first 3 months.
- Plus, earn an additional 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $2,500 in purchases in month 13
- You could earn up to $4,400 in value within your first 13 months. When you combine the Welcome Bonus offer of up to $1,700 in value, your earn potential in accelerated and everyday spend earn rate categories with approximately $1,760 in value, and the $1,000 in value you get from exceptional benefits, you can earn up to $4,400 or more in value within your first 13 months. Terms and usage assumptions apply.
- Cardmembers can now get an extra night free for every 3 hotel nights redeemed with Aeroplan points. Enjoy even more at over 300,000 hotel properties worldwide
- Receive up to $100 CAD in statement credits every four years when a NEXUS application or renewal fee is charged to your American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card
- Highest Air Canada earn rate on an Aeroplan payment card in Canada: Earn 3X the points on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada®* and Air Canada Vacations®*.
- Standard Earn Rate: Earn 2X the points on eligible Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada and earn 1.25X the points on everything else.
- Get through the airport quicker with Air Canada Priority Check-In, Air Canada Priority Boarding and Air Canada Priority Baggage Handling.
- Receive one Annual Worldwide Companion Pass when you spend $25,000 in net purchases prior to your Card anniversary date; your Pass entitles you to buy an accompanying Air Canada economy class ticket for a companion at a fixed base fare from $99 to a maximum of $599 CAD (plus taxes, fees, charges, and surcharges)
- Enjoy access to select Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges™* and Air Canada Café™ in North America for you and a guest, with a same day ticket on a departing Air Canada or Star Alliance flight.
- Enjoy your eligible first checked bag free for up to 9 people travelling on the same reservation on Air Canada flights.
- Get a 10% Head Start. Starting in 2027, eligible Basic Cardmembers with Aeroplan Elite™* Status will receive a 10% head start toward qualification, based on Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) accumulated the year before. Roll over any unallocated unused eUpgrade Credits to the following year to enjoy during your travels
- Get access to more than 1,200 Priority Pass™ airport lounges and enjoy an oasis of comfort before your flight, regardless of your airline or cabin class.
- Amex Experiences™ opens doors for you to access a number of special events, including special dining experiences, VIP parties, advance film screenings and more
- Get more from your travel experience at Toronto Pearson International Airport with:
- Access to Pearson Priority Security Lane
- Complimentary valet service at the Express Park and Daily Park
- 15% discount on parking rates at the Express Park and Daily Park
- 15% discount on Car Care Services
- Insurance Coverage: whether you’re shopping nearby or travelling abroad, you can feel confident knowing you can be taken care of.
- American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card is made from precision cut and engraved 13g metal – it’s the perfect companion on your next exceptional journey
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Rewards breakdown
Rewards breakdownPoints on eligible travel purchases.
Points on eligible purchases at gas stations in Canada.
on eligible purchases at grocery stores in Canada.
on eligible purchases at drugstores in Canada.
Point on purchases everywhere else.
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeThis flexible, mid-tier travel card is outfitted in an eye-catching stainless steel, typically reserved for premium cards with $500+ annual fees. The Amex Gold Rewards boasts broad rewards earning categories for eligible dollars spent on travel, gas, groceries and drugstore purchases. Perks like a $100 annual travel credit and airport lounge access add tangible value but only help offset the $250 annual fee if they’re put to use. Best for: Travellers seeking occasional lounge access and flexible, everyday rewards.
Pros
- Four complimentary Plaza Premium lounge visits annually.
- $50 NEXUS statement credit.
- Comprehensive travel coverage.
Cons
- Limited airport lounge passes.
Card details
Card details- Earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards® points:
- New American Express® Gold Rewards Cardmembers, earn 5,000 Membership Rewards® points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $1,000 in net purchases on your Card.
- Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases for eligible travel purchases, including flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more.
- Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases at eligible gas stations, grocery stores and drugstores in Canada, and 1 point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else.
- The Card is now available in your choice of Gold or Rose Gold metal options.
- Receive a $50 CAD statement credit when a NEXUS application or renewal fee is charged to your American Express Gold Rewards Card.
- You have access to an annual $100 CAD Travel Credit, compliments of your American Express Gold Rewards Card. Use the credit once annually towards any single travel booking of $100 or more charged to your Gold Rewards Card through American Express Travel Online.
- As a Gold Rewards Cardmember, you can receive complimentary membership in Priority PassTM – one of the world’s largest independent airport lounge programs. Escape the chaos of airports and relax in an oasis of calm and simply enjoy the fact that the travel experience has begun before your plane has even left the ground. Enrollment is required and entry fees apply.
- Enjoy four (4) complimentary visits per Calendar year to Plaza Premium Lounges across Canada. Entry fees apply once complimentary visits have been used.
- Charge any eligible purchase to your credit Card then log in to redeem your earned points for a statement credit.
- Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs.
- 1 Free Additional Gold Rewards Card (a $50 value) to help you earn points faster.
- Subject to approval. The preferred rate for purchases is 21.99% and funds advances is 21.99%. If you have Missed Payments, the applicable rates for your account will be 25.99% and/or 29.99%. See the information box included with the application for the definition of Missed Payment and which rates apply to charges on your account and other details
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining of monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply.
- To be eligible, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
Reasons you might want a different card
The American Express Aeroplan Reserve card provides an excellent suite of benefits, but not everyone will be comfortable paying the high annual fee. And if you don’t dine out often, you may not get much value from the card’s elevated earn rates on restaurant and food delivery purchases.
American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card facts
American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card | |
|---|---|
Card type | |
Fees and interest rates | |
Annual fee | $599. |
Regular/purchase APR | 21.99% |
Penalty APR | 25.99% if you miss two payments within 12 months and 29.99% if you miss three payments within 12 months. |
Cash advance APR | 21.99%. |
Funds advance fee | $0 each. |
Balance transfer APR | N/A. |
Foreign transaction fee | 2.5% of the transaction amount. |
Rewards and benefits | |
Intro offer | Up to 85,000 Points. |
Reward earn rates | Earn 1.25, 2 or 3 Aeroplan points per $1 CAD spent, based on the type of purchase. |
Other perks |
|
Insurance coverage | |
Travel accident | Up to $500,000. |
Travel medical | Up to $5 million per insured person per trip. |
Trip cancellation | Up to $1,500 per insured person per trip. |
Flight delay | Up to $1,000 for necessary accommodations, restaurant expenses and sundries. |
Baggage delay | Up to $1,000 for essential clothing and sundry items. |
Lost or stolen baggage | Up to $1,000 of coverage per trip for all insured persons. |
Hotel burglary | Up to $1,000 of coverage for personal items (excluding cash). |
Rental car theft/damage | For up to 48 days. |
Extended warranty | Up to 1 additional year. |
Purchase Protection | 90 days. |
Methodology
BACK TO TOPFrequently asked questions
Does the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card have lounge access?
The American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card offers complimentary access to Maple Leaf Lounges in North America, as well as free membership to Priority Pass.
What is the annual fee for the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card?
The American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card’s annual fee is $599. Additional cards cost $199 each. Additional no-fee cards are also available. Additional cardmembers must be at least 13 years old.
How do I apply for the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card?
You can complete the application for the Aeroplan Reserve card from the American Express website.
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