Natalie Wong andScott Deveau, Bloomberg
It took some takeover gamesmanship but Air Canada has Aeroplan back in its fold. It looks like a higher bid for the loyalty program was still a cheaper prospect than for the carrier to do it on its own.
11 months ago
Frederic Tomesco, Bloomberg
Aimia is taking aggressive action to show the Aeroplan frequent flyer program, which Air Canada started in 1984 but Aimia now owns, can exist after the airline adopts a new loyalty scheme in 2020. That might be true, and Aimia's investors seem to be buying it. But we still think the best move is for Aimia to sell Aeroplan back to Air Canada.
11 months ago
Brian Sumers, Skift
It always seemed unlikely Aimia would accept this offer for the Aeroplan program. But this is bad news for Air Canada frequent flyers who have spent decades building their frequent flyer accounts. If nothing changes, they won't be able to use their miles as they expected in less than two years.
12 months ago
Frederic Tomesco and Kristine Owram, Bloomberg
Customers holding Aeroplan points likely would prefer Aimia to sell to Air Canada, and that may happen. But we suspect Aimia, which owns Aeroplan, does not want to sell to Air Canada for a bargain price. Thus, the company is exploring other options.
12 months ago
Frederic Tomesco, Bloomberg
Air Canada has all the leverage. While the airline probably would prefer to control Aeroplan, it doesn't need it. Given the circumstances, why shouldn't the airline play hardball?
12 months ago
Kristine Owram, Bloomberg
Air Canada's decision could have a larger ripple effect on how consumers earn and redeem loyalty both in Canada and other regions where Star Alliance loyalty has a traditional stronghold.
2 years ago