I think this is good news (maybe?!) What's unclear from the press release is what the MR transfer rates to AC Altitude will be come 2020. The fact that existing Aeroplan points will transfer to Altitude at a one to one rate is news to no one I suspect. It will also be interesting to see what new premium cards will be launched next year from AE and whether those cards will be charge cards (or worse) credit cards.
Out of curiosity has there been any announcement from TD and CIBC as to whether there would be new Altitude credit cards in 2020? If so, then I suspect the offerings between the AE, CIBC and TD will be the same.
Here's to hoping there's no devaluations in the new Altitude program nor the AE MR program.
Safe Travels,
James