This has probably been asked before but I was hoping to get clarification on how to get around the surcharges charged by Aeroplan for Air Canada flights. The tips I've been given (and used) before are to book through United or LifeMiles who don't pass on fuel surcharges from airlines that charge them like Air Canada or Luftsana. However, this means I will have to use LifeMiles/United miles to book that specific award flight. I read on OneMillionMileSecrets that if you find a specific seat on these other programs (LM/MP) that you can call Aeroplan and they can book you that seat.. but doesn't that still mean you'll have to pay in Aeroplan Miles and still be charged the extra fees? Has anyone tried this before that can give more detail?

Thanks!

Ps. Specifically I'm looking for award tickets between NA and Europe. Ex. Toronto - Paris, New York - London, etc etc.