Nov 24, 2018, 10:33 pm
Last edit by: Adam Smith
New MM/2MM/3MM/*MM Members - Report your achievement in the roll call thread
Air Canada Million Mile Lifetime member Master Thread Wiki
*** For the time being, please post any wiki requests as a regular post and allow yyznomad to manage the wiki. Please and thank you.
JUMP TO THE FAQ
It is long overdue that this Million Miler master thread got a wiki. This thread was started by Catch, who first reported receiving his/her Million Miler kit from Air Canada.
Seeing how the same questions get asked repeatedly over the last eight years, I put together as much information as possible. Of course, the Million Miler program is a fluid beast and with newly minted Million Milers as we go along, this wiki will be updated to reflect such changes and program updates.
In the past, several former and extremely valuable contributors to the AC FT forum, as well as current contributors, have lobbied Air Canada for a Lifetime recognition program.
Beginning in 2010, this program came to fruition. As per Andrew Yiu, a former valued FT contributor (under a different handle) and now Air Canada Executive and a former FT AC lurker:
And without further adieu, the MM FAQ.
- yyznomad
======================================
Air Canada Million Mile Lifetime: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q0: When did the Million Mile Lifetime program rollout?
Q1a: Where can I find my Million Miler Lifetime AQM total?
Q1b: Where can I find my historical Million Miler Lifetime AQM activity/flights?
Q2: Which types of AQM counts toward Million Miler Lifetime AQM?
Q3: What do I get when I reach Million Miler nirvana and when will I get my MM package?
Q4: What Privileges do I get as a Million Miler?
Q5: When I become a 2MMer, what is the process for gifting Lifetime status to another person?
Q6: How many Air Canada Million Mile members are there?
Q7: How do Air Canada Million Mile Lifetime members compare to other programs?
Q8: Does/can the front-line staff and crew have the ability to distinguish between a 1MM vs. 2MM vs. 3MM vs. etc?
Q9: What additional benefits does a Million Mile Lifetime member receive?
Q10: What are the PIL codes for MMers?
Q11: Which FTers are Million Mile Lifetime members?
Back to FAQ
Q0: When did the Million Mile Lifetime program rollout?
The program was quietly rolled out in 2010 at around the same time this thread was started. There was no press release. There was no blast to members. Only those who had achieved MM status based on the requirements were communicated with directly.
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q1a: Where can I find my Million Miler Lifetime AQM total?
In your Altitude account (not Aeroplan), there is a special section labeled with a small "Million Mile Member" just underneath the "Priority Rewards Available" section.
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q1b: Where can I find my Million Miler Lifetime AQM total?
When the program was launched in late 2010/early 2011, there was an email in which members could use to retrieve a list (Excel spreadsheet) of historical flights that went towards MM status.
This email is no longer in use by Air Canada. At this time, there is no officially known method in which an Altitude member can retrive a list of historical flights.
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q2: Which types of AQM counts toward Million Miler Lifetime AQM?
From Air Canada:
In other words, you need to fly on Air Canada operated metal (Mainline, Rouge, regional affiliates, etc.) with fare classes that earn AQM including Class of Service Bonus (COS), where applicable, or purchase a UFP (Unlimited Flight Pass) which accrues monthly flat rate AQMs (varies depending on fare category of the UFP - typically 10,000 AQM/Flex/month, 15,000 AQM/Latitude/month, 20,000 AQM/Business/Month, etc.).
Anything else, including AQM promotional bonuses, other AQM bonuses, Benefit package AQMs as part of flight pass purchases, flying other airline metal on Air Canada 014 ticket stock, etc., do not qualify.
Those who had status with CP had their relevant miles grandfathered as Lifetime miles.
Please note that AQS/segments do not count towards Lifetime status. There is currently no AQD requirement for Lifetime status.
Having said that, this is no easy feat given the strict requirements.
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q3: What do I get when I reach Million Miler nirvana and when will I get my MM package?
The Million Miler packages have changed over time.
Newly minted 1 Million Mile members typically get a scale model aircraft with the base engraved with your name along with the Million Miler designation. Prior to Dreamliners entering service with Air Canada, members received a model 777 aircraft. Since 2014/2015, new Million Mile members have received Air Canada Dreamliner models.
You will receive new luggage tags and a new member card reflecting the current status you are at (that is, no lower than E50K from that point onward) which include the Million Miles logo (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc.).
Additional eUpgrade credits are given.
Some members, at different MM levels, have reported receiving in-person celebrations courtesy of Air Canada at the airport after arriving from a flight that brought them over an MM threshold, in-flight recognition from the SD regardless of cabin, surprise recognition and gifts in the MLLs, etc.
Two Million and Three Million+ Milers have also anecdotally received various gifts, which have varied over the years.
Gifts may include additional eUpgrade credits, a selection from a list of gifts that have included items such as Bose products, jewellery, gift cards with significant value, etc.
It is certainly exciting to become a Million Mile member!
The most recent information is courtesy of 24left:
https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/30121386-post3296.html
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q4: What Privileges do I get as a Million Miler?
One Million Miles
Two Million Miles
Three Million Miles
Four Million Miles+
Five Million Miles
???
As of this initial wiki entry, there is only one known Five Million Miler.
https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/air-...ion-miler.html
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q5: When I become a 2MMer, what is the process for gifting E50K Lifetime status to another person?
In your Altitude account, there will eventually be a link that allows you to nominate your E50K Lifetime status beneficiary.
Your beneficiary must have an Aeroplan account as their name and Aeroplan number is required, along with requisite contact/address information.
Once submitted, they will receive their package within several weeks.
Please note that this is the one and only beneficiary you will pick as they will receive this status for life. Pick wisely!
Furthermore, if you become a Four Million Mile member, then your beneficiary gets a boost from E50K Lifetime up to E75 Lifetime.
Your beneficiary will then be listed under the Million Mile member program details:
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q6: How many Air Canada Million Mile members are there?
Air Canada has not officially published numbers on this.
Anecdotally, there is only one (1) Five Million Miler, John Segatti (this information is public, so don't get all wound up about publishing the member's name). This was achieved in December 2016.
https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/air-...ion-miler.html
The number of Four Million Milers is not known, although there will be one FT contributor who will reach this milestone shortly. This cohort would be definitely miniscule.
There is most likely no more than 50 Three Million Milers.
The number of Two Million Milers is unknown, although it is generally accepted, anecdotally, that it is much more rare than the ubiquitous One Million Miler.
The number of One Million Milers is anecdotally "large", but in the context of all members, this cohort is relatively small.
Here is a quote from @diddy; who did a somewhat reasonable Fermi estimate as of September 2018:
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q7: How do Air Canada Million Mile Lifetime members compare to other programs?
There are several members in the 10MM+ Lifetime range with several American carriers, for example. There is someone in the 17MM range.
So in perspective, Air Canada Million Mile members have a lot of catching up to do!
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q8: Does/can the front-line staff and crew have the ability to distinguish between a 1MM vs. 2MM vs. 3MM vs. etc?
It is possible that an AC employee may notice your MM tier off of your luggage tag, as this does happen from time to time. You might even be engaged in conversation with an AC employee who might inquire about which MM tier you are in.
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q9: What additional benefits does a Million Mile Lifetime member receive?
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q10: What are the PIL codes for MMers?
(note that only two letters can appear after the *, so AC*SE is NOT AC*SEM but instead is AC*SM)
Sources:
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q11: Which FTers are Million Mile Lifetime members?
The current roll call thread can be found here.
Back to FAQ|
Air Canada Million Mile Lifetime member Master Thread Wiki
*** For the time being, please post any wiki requests as a regular post and allow yyznomad to manage the wiki. Please and thank you.
JUMP TO THE FAQ
It is long overdue that this Million Miler master thread got a wiki. This thread was started by Catch, who first reported receiving his/her Million Miler kit from Air Canada.
Seeing how the same questions get asked repeatedly over the last eight years, I put together as much information as possible. Of course, the Million Miler program is a fluid beast and with newly minted Million Milers as we go along, this wiki will be updated to reflect such changes and program updates.
In the past, several former and extremely valuable contributors to the AC FT forum, as well as current contributors, have lobbied Air Canada for a Lifetime recognition program.
Beginning in 2010, this program came to fruition. As per Andrew Yiu, a former valued FT contributor (under a different handle) and now Air Canada Executive and a former FT AC lurker:
As I had previously mentioned in the post on 2010 top tier benefits as well as during SE events, Air Canada will start recognizing customers who have demonstrated long term loyalty to Air Canada by flying significant amount of status miles on Air Canada operated flights including regional carriers such as Jazz since the inception of the Air Canada top tier program. Those who qualified for this program will be contacted directly by AC in the coming weeks as the mailing of the packages are not done in one batch; so if you didn't get anything yesterday, don't assume you didn't qualify. The number of members that qualified is extremely small relative to the overall membership base hence the details of the program are communicated directly with those who qualified and not communicated in a press release (as some of you have suggested). As for the core benefits of the program, the first post gave some pretty good description of it.
As to those who accused us of 'poor communication' 'embarassing communication day', members who qualified for this would have been contacted with a nicely presented package and again only very small group of customers qualified for this.
As to those who accused us of 'poor communication' 'embarassing communication day', members who qualified for this would have been contacted with a nicely presented package and again only very small group of customers qualified for this.
And without further adieu, the MM FAQ.
- yyznomad
======================================
Air Canada Million Mile Lifetime: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q0: When did the Million Mile Lifetime program rollout?
Q1a: Where can I find my Million Miler Lifetime AQM total?
Q1b: Where can I find my historical Million Miler Lifetime AQM activity/flights?
Q2: Which types of AQM counts toward Million Miler Lifetime AQM?
Q3: What do I get when I reach Million Miler nirvana and when will I get my MM package?
Q4: What Privileges do I get as a Million Miler?
Q5: When I become a 2MMer, what is the process for gifting Lifetime status to another person?
Q6: How many Air Canada Million Mile members are there?
Q7: How do Air Canada Million Mile Lifetime members compare to other programs?
Q8: Does/can the front-line staff and crew have the ability to distinguish between a 1MM vs. 2MM vs. 3MM vs. etc?
Q9: What additional benefits does a Million Mile Lifetime member receive?
Q10: What are the PIL codes for MMers?
Q11: Which FTers are Million Mile Lifetime members?
Back to FAQ
Q0: When did the Million Mile Lifetime program rollout?
The program was quietly rolled out in 2010 at around the same time this thread was started. There was no press release. There was no blast to members. Only those who had achieved MM status based on the requirements were communicated with directly.
As I had previously mentioned in the post on 2010 top tier benefits as well as during SE events, Air Canada will start recognizing customers who have demonstrated long term loyalty to Air Canada by flying significant amount of status miles on Air Canada operated flights including regional carriers such as Jazz since the inception of the Air Canada top tier program. Those who qualified for this program will be contacted directly by AC in the coming weeks as the mailing of the packages are not done in one batch; so if you didn't get anything yesterday, don't assume you didn't qualify. The number of members that qualified is extremely small relative to the overall membership base hence the details of the program are communicated directly with those who qualified and not communicated in a press release (as some of you have suggested). As for the core benefits of the program, the first post gave some pretty good description of it.
As to those who accused us of 'poor communication' 'embarassing communication day', members who qualified for this would have been contacted with a nicely presented package and again only very small group of customers qualified for this.
As to those who accused us of 'poor communication' 'embarassing communication day', members who qualified for this would have been contacted with a nicely presented package and again only very small group of customers qualified for this.
Back to FAQ
Q1a: Where can I find my Million Miler Lifetime AQM total?
In your Altitude account (not Aeroplan), there is a special section labeled with a small "Million Mile Member" just underneath the "Priority Rewards Available" section.
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q1b: Where can I find my Million Miler Lifetime AQM total?
When the program was launched in late 2010/early 2011, there was an email in which members could use to retrieve a list (Excel spreadsheet) of historical flights that went towards MM status.
This email is no longer in use by Air Canada. At this time, there is no officially known method in which an Altitude member can retrive a list of historical flights.
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q2: Which types of AQM counts toward Million Miler Lifetime AQM?
From Air Canada:
Originally Posted by Air Canada Altitude
Fly more than one million Lifetime Altitude Qualifying Miles on eligible flights operated by Air Canada and you'll become part of this distinguished group. AQMs which are eligible for this program are those earned on flights operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge and its regional affiliates (such as Air Canada Express) since 1988.
Additionally, AQMs earned as a bonus for purchasing Business Class fares, or in conjunction with the purchase of an Air Canada Unlimited Flight Pass, will count towards this program. Note that all other AQMs, including those earned for travel operated by the Star Alliance member airlines, do not qualify.
Additionally, AQMs earned as a bonus for purchasing Business Class fares, or in conjunction with the purchase of an Air Canada Unlimited Flight Pass, will count towards this program. Note that all other AQMs, including those earned for travel operated by the Star Alliance member airlines, do not qualify.
Anything else, including AQM promotional bonuses, other AQM bonuses, Benefit package AQMs as part of flight pass purchases, flying other airline metal on Air Canada 014 ticket stock, etc., do not qualify.
Those who had status with CP had their relevant miles grandfathered as Lifetime miles.
Please note that AQS/segments do not count towards Lifetime status. There is currently no AQD requirement for Lifetime status.
Having said that, this is no easy feat given the strict requirements.
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q3: What do I get when I reach Million Miler nirvana and when will I get my MM package?
The Million Miler packages have changed over time.
- Once crossing over the 1MM threshold, you may receive an email acknowledging the achievement.
- Your Altitude page should reflect 1MM shortly thereafter (depends on sweeps but can be as fast as a week but YMMV)
- The MM package has been reported to be received approximately a few weeks following the MM threshold crossing, but again, YMMV.
Newly minted 1 Million Mile members typically get a scale model aircraft with the base engraved with your name along with the Million Miler designation. Prior to Dreamliners entering service with Air Canada, members received a model 777 aircraft. Since 2014/2015, new Million Mile members have received Air Canada Dreamliner models.
You will receive new luggage tags and a new member card reflecting the current status you are at (that is, no lower than E50K from that point onward) which include the Million Miles logo (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc.).
Additional eUpgrade credits are given.
Some members, at different MM levels, have reported receiving in-person celebrations courtesy of Air Canada at the airport after arriving from a flight that brought them over an MM threshold, in-flight recognition from the SD regardless of cabin, surprise recognition and gifts in the MLLs, etc.
Two Million and Three Million+ Milers have also anecdotally received various gifts, which have varied over the years.
Gifts may include additional eUpgrade credits, a selection from a list of gifts that have included items such as Bose products, jewellery, gift cards with significant value, etc.
It is certainly exciting to become a Million Mile member!
The most recent information is courtesy of 24left:
https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/30121386-post3296.html
Ooooooh, Fedex package arrived today........
Very exciting.
First thing you see inside the box
When you open the top, there is this
Then there is the multi-folded package. It has a very nice letter signed by Calin and Ben, along with these.
Yes, a huge thanks to my awesome friend @gabdusch who had the creative talents to make sure these cards had my "name"
Oooooooh
Ok, I'm excited now. It's Fin 801, the "first born". I flew her 4 years ago on my first ever flight to Tokyo HND.
Yes, I will take the time to assemble and let you all know how that worked out.
(sma)
.
Very exciting.
First thing you see inside the box
When you open the top, there is this
Then there is the multi-folded package. It has a very nice letter signed by Calin and Ben, along with these.
Yes, a huge thanks to my awesome friend @gabdusch who had the creative talents to make sure these cards had my "name"
Oooooooh
Ok, I'm excited now. It's Fin 801, the "first born". I flew her 4 years ago on my first ever flight to Tokyo HND.
Yes, I will take the time to assemble and let you all know how that worked out.
(sma)
.
Back to FAQ
Q4: What Privileges do I get as a Million Miler?
One Million Miles
Originally Posted by Air Canada Altitude
Your Altitude status will never fall below Elite 50K
Originally Posted by Air Canada Altitude
Your Altitude status will never fall below Elite75K, and that of a friend, will never fall below Elite 50K
Originally Posted by Air Canada Altitude
Your Altitude status will never fall below Super Elite 100K, and that of a friend will never fall below Elite 50K
Originally Posted by Air Canada Altitude
Once you reach Four Million Miles, your Altitude status will never fall below Super Elite100K. The status of your previously nominated friend will never fall below Elite 75K. Keep flying to receive greater, additional recognition.
???
As of this initial wiki entry, there is only one known Five Million Miler.
https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/air-...ion-miler.html
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q5: When I become a 2MMer, what is the process for gifting E50K Lifetime status to another person?
In your Altitude account, there will eventually be a link that allows you to nominate your E50K Lifetime status beneficiary.
Your beneficiary must have an Aeroplan account as their name and Aeroplan number is required, along with requisite contact/address information.
Once submitted, they will receive their package within several weeks.
Please note that this is the one and only beneficiary you will pick as they will receive this status for life. Pick wisely!
Furthermore, if you become a Four Million Mile member, then your beneficiary gets a boost from E50K Lifetime up to E75 Lifetime.
Your beneficiary will then be listed under the Million Mile member program details:
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q6: How many Air Canada Million Mile members are there?
Air Canada has not officially published numbers on this.
Anecdotally, there is only one (1) Five Million Miler, John Segatti (this information is public, so don't get all wound up about publishing the member's name). This was achieved in December 2016.
https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/air-...ion-miler.html
The number of Four Million Milers is not known, although there will be one FT contributor who will reach this milestone shortly. This cohort would be definitely miniscule.
There is most likely no more than 50 Three Million Milers.
The number of Two Million Milers is unknown, although it is generally accepted, anecdotally, that it is much more rare than the ubiquitous One Million Miler.
The number of One Million Milers is anecdotally "large", but in the context of all members, this cohort is relatively small.
Here is a quote from @diddy; who did a somewhat reasonable Fermi estimate as of September 2018:
These are always fun exercises. There has not been so far any way to know for sure. We can make a reasoned guesstimate, and I know this has been done on FT in the past. Including some who flame. Whatever. United forum did a MM roll-call thread in 2007 and came up with 300+ MM after 5 years of the thread (!) to 2012. It looks now like closer to double that in the posts since. I did not count. Based on this thread there are about 600+ 1MM. About 80 2MM and 20+3MM. Including one poor chap at 17MM. That is in a country with three major international carriers.
Assumptions:
1. A minority of these people would be on FT.
2. Those that are on don't always post. I am super guilty of this.
3. The AC and UA ratios are even remotely similar, given Canada's lower population but longer travel distances and only one major international carrier.
4. Other threads here have estimated / had apparent information from Andrew Yiu that there are about 10,000 SE's and 35,000 people with status below SE annually.
5. Based on my frequent AC travel and bag tag gazing. Full disclosure : I am a newly minted AC2MM.
Based on this I will put forth the following:
1MM ~ 1250
2MM ~ 150
3MM ~ 20
Consider pot re-stirred.
diddy
Assumptions:
1. A minority of these people would be on FT.
2. Those that are on don't always post. I am super guilty of this.
3. The AC and UA ratios are even remotely similar, given Canada's lower population but longer travel distances and only one major international carrier.
4. Other threads here have estimated / had apparent information from Andrew Yiu that there are about 10,000 SE's and 35,000 people with status below SE annually.
5. Based on my frequent AC travel and bag tag gazing. Full disclosure : I am a newly minted AC2MM.
Based on this I will put forth the following:
1MM ~ 1250
2MM ~ 150
3MM ~ 20
Consider pot re-stirred.
diddy
Back to FAQ
Q7: How do Air Canada Million Mile Lifetime members compare to other programs?
There are several members in the 10MM+ Lifetime range with several American carriers, for example. There is someone in the 17MM range.
So in perspective, Air Canada Million Mile members have a lot of catching up to do!
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q8: Does/can the front-line staff and crew have the ability to distinguish between a 1MM vs. 2MM vs. 3MM vs. etc?
- In short, no. The PIL only identifies a passenger as a "Million Miler", it does not distinguish between different MM tiers.
- When scanning your BP at the gate prior to boarding your flight, the screen will only identify to the agent that you are a Million Mile member, regardless of MM tier.
- The remarks section of your boarding pass simply shows "ACMM" regardless of MM tier.
- For eUpgrade priority, the system does not distinguish between MM tiers. A 1MM is a 2MM is a 3MM, etc. They are all "MM".
It is possible that an AC employee may notice your MM tier off of your luggage tag, as this does happen from time to time. You might even be engaged in conversation with an AC employee who might inquire about which MM tier you are in.
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q9: What additional benefits does a Million Mile Lifetime member receive?
- The "ACMM" designation under the Remarks section of your boarding pass (small) stub. Anecdotally, this will start appearing on your boarding pass approximately a few weeks after reaching the milestone.
Image courtesy of 24left
- Higher status priority for eUpgrades than non-MM counterparts (i.e. SE MM trumps SE, E50K MM trumps E50K, etc.)
- Higher onload list priority than non-MM counterparts as per above.
- Your MM status will be on the PIL. See Q10.
- Occasional recognition by the SD in J and sometimes in Y (typically this means that during J meal orders, they may acknowledge your MM status, and in Y, the SD may occsionally approach you mid-flight and thank you for your loyalty as a MMer)
- As a Super Elite MM, your are at the top of the meal order taking protocol ahead of non-MM SEs (notwithstanding VIPs)
Back to FAQ
Back to FAQ
Q10: What are the PIL codes for MMers?
- P25K shows as AC*P
- E35K shows as AC*F
- E50K shows as AC*E; E50K MM shows as AC*EM
- E75K shows as AC*D; E75K MM shows as AC*DM
- S100K shows as AC*SE; S100K MM shows as AC*SM
- VIP shows as AC*X; VIP MM shows as AC*XM
(note that only two letters can appear after the *, so AC*SE is NOT AC*SEM but instead is AC*SM)
Sources:
Back to FAQ
Q11: Which FTers are Million Mile Lifetime members?
The current roll call thread can be found here.
Back to FAQ|
Million Miles Recognition from AC
Aug 28, 2015, 9:37 pm
#2206
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: YVR
Programs: AC SE 2MM; UA MP Premier Silver; Marriott Bonvoy LT Titanium Elite; Radisson; Avis PC
Posts: 35,255
for some reason AC has not played up the MM program, especially the 2 and 3MM achievements.
I do know they underestimated the number of 1MM they expected and that may have caused a dampening of interest in doing more for those achievers. At 3MM, which I am getting ever closer to, the lifetime SE is probably as good as it gets. The average SE flier probably needs 25 years or more to achieve 3MM and once AC figures that out they may do more for those that reach this level. Most people don't fly that long in their careers.
I do know they underestimated the number of 1MM they expected and that may have caused a dampening of interest in doing more for those achievers. At 3MM, which I am getting ever closer to, the lifetime SE is probably as good as it gets. The average SE flier probably needs 25 years or more to achieve 3MM and once AC figures that out they may do more for those that reach this level. Most people don't fly that long in their careers.
Although in my opinion AC has many areas to improve and after flying 20 other airlines (mix of non*A and *A), I still put AC "up there" in quality... of course, I am not comparing them to F products or Asian carrier products of course
Aug 29, 2015, 2:49 pm
#2207
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: BGI (ex-YYC, YYZ)
Programs: AC*G-E100K (once again)
Posts: 1,701
Wouldn't it be a good idea for AC to find some way of conferring MM honors for those of us that earn our status the hard way - on segments? With over 70 segments this year I've only picked up about 30K additional miles.
A qualification based on years of SE might be equitable - as the hotels do.
A qualification based on years of SE might be equitable - as the hotels do.
Aug 29, 2015, 5:29 pm
#2208
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: YYC
Programs: AC SE 1MM, Marriott Ambassador
Posts: 3,396
There may be some of that for the international flyer SE, but domestically there really isn't much point. Speaking for myself, I am rarely more than 20-30% over 100k miles, meaning that "exploring options" really wouldn't happen more than 20% of the time. And how many times do you need to fly another airline to know what you are going to get. I realize that if you qualify for SE flying TPAC or TATL there are a lot of folks that might get 2-5x the SE required mileage, so this comment doesn't apply to them.
This is one of the few things I think AC does right with the program. SE, the highest tier, offers significant marginal benefit (so far) over E75 and lower. Contrast that with SPG lifetime PLT for example. Anything over SPG50 offers pretty marginal value. And 50 nights is probably only 50% of total stays for a lot of frequent flyers. So you have a lot of nights to experiment with, lots of competitive brands to try, and little incentive to keep going with SPG.
This is one of the few things I think AC does right with the program. SE, the highest tier, offers significant marginal benefit (so far) over E75 and lower. Contrast that with SPG lifetime PLT for example. Anything over SPG50 offers pretty marginal value. And 50 nights is probably only 50% of total stays for a lot of frequent flyers. So you have a lot of nights to experiment with, lots of competitive brands to try, and little incentive to keep going with SPG.
Aug 29, 2015, 10:11 pm
#2209
Suspended
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Toronto YYZ UA-1K 1MM,QFgold
Programs: Royal Ambassador/ SPG Platinum 75/Marriott gold
Posts: 14,283
There may be some of that for the international flyer SE, but domestically there really isn't much point. . I realize that if you qualify for SE flying TPAC or TATL there are a lot of folks that might get 2-5x the SE required mileage, so this comment doesn't apply to them.
This is one of the few things I think AC does right with the program. SE, the highest tier, offers significant marginal benefit (so far) over E75 and lower. .
This is one of the few things I think AC does right with the program. SE, the highest tier, offers significant marginal benefit (so far) over E75 and lower. .
Internationally customers have choices. All North American airlines top tier have significant benefits over the other status. AC was very unusual that for a very long time its Elite program was the best in NA. Even SE was a great program many moons ago. Today AC realizes its FF program is in reality for trapped customers who have little choice, for lots of reasons.
Aug 29, 2015, 10:38 pm
#2210
Join Date: Oct 2008
Location: YYC
Posts: 4,035
I don't see how this is possibly true. They must have known exactly how many 1MM they were going to get when the program started, because they had the database of their members' lifetime AQM needed to start awarding it.
Aug 29, 2015, 10:41 pm
#2211
Moderator, Air Canada; FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: YYC
Programs: AC SE MM, FB Plat, WS Plat, BA Silver, DL GM, Marriott Plat, Hilton Gold, Accor Silver
Posts: 16,742
Has anyone had issues with the counter to MM status showing up? It's supposed to appear on the website starting at 500K... what should we call them, MMQM?
I have 250K AQM on AC metal from 2013 to today and I'm quite certain that I'm over 250K in my life up to that point (I seem to recall e-mailing Aeroplan shortly after they announced the program, back in 2008 or 2009 or whatever, and being in the 100-200K range. And from that time until the end of 2012, I definitely flew more than 150K MMQM.)
But I have no counter on my Altitude page.
I'm curious, who does one e-mail these days for something like this? Altitude? Aeroplan? Also, I just wondered, do they keep a record of every individual flight and its AQM or just the running total? Because it would be kind of cool if you could get them to send you a list of all the flights you've ever done. My FlightMemory is pretty complete for the last few years, but there's 20+ years of my life without data.
I have 250K AQM on AC metal from 2013 to today and I'm quite certain that I'm over 250K in my life up to that point (I seem to recall e-mailing Aeroplan shortly after they announced the program, back in 2008 or 2009 or whatever, and being in the 100-200K range. And from that time until the end of 2012, I definitely flew more than 150K MMQM.)
But I have no counter on my Altitude page.
I'm curious, who does one e-mail these days for something like this? Altitude? Aeroplan? Also, I just wondered, do they keep a record of every individual flight and its AQM or just the running total? Because it would be kind of cool if you could get them to send you a list of all the flights you've ever done. My FlightMemory is pretty complete for the last few years, but there's 20+ years of my life without data.
Aug 30, 2015, 3:21 am
#2212
Suspended
Join Date: Dec 2010
Posts: 4,153
Has anyone had issues with the counter to MM status showing up? It's supposed to appear on the website starting at 500K... what should we call them, MMQM?
I have 250K AQM on AC metal from 2013 to today and I'm quite certain that I'm over 250K in my life up to that point (I seem to recall e-mailing Aeroplan shortly after they announced the program, back in 2008 or 2009 or whatever, and being in the 100-200K range. And from that time until the end of 2012, I definitely flew more than 150K MMQM.)
But I have no counter on my Altitude page.
I'm curious, who does one e-mail these days for something like this? Altitude? Aeroplan? Also, I just wondered, do they keep a record of every individual flight and its AQM or just the running total? Because it would be kind of cool if you could get them to send you a list of all the flights you've ever done. My FlightMemory is pretty complete for the last few years, but there's 20+ years of my life without data.
I have 250K AQM on AC metal from 2013 to today and I'm quite certain that I'm over 250K in my life up to that point (I seem to recall e-mailing Aeroplan shortly after they announced the program, back in 2008 or 2009 or whatever, and being in the 100-200K range. And from that time until the end of 2012, I definitely flew more than 150K MMQM.)
But I have no counter on my Altitude page.
I'm curious, who does one e-mail these days for something like this? Altitude? Aeroplan? Also, I just wondered, do they keep a record of every individual flight and its AQM or just the running total? Because it would be kind of cool if you could get them to send you a list of all the flights you've ever done. My FlightMemory is pretty complete for the last few years, but there's 20+ years of my life without data.
And they can't really answer aircanada related questions.
This has been like this for years so obviously Air Cananda is trying to frustrate average users and reduce follow ups.
Aug 30, 2015, 4:46 pm
#2213
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Sep 1999
Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Programs: OWEmerald; STARGold; BonvoyPlat; IHGPlat/Amb; HiltonGold; A|ClubPat; AirMilesPlat
Posts: 38,186
Perhaps AC should amend the whole program and grant Lifetime status after someone has been an elite tier member for at least 25-years. The status granted would be the one most often achieved over that "lifetime" of flying. This would address a couple of things:
1. Segment flyers who achieve status but don't earn as many E/AQMs
2. Keeps elites flying AC through their lifetime of generally business-related flying...the current program, by granting STARGold after 1 MM could have the effect of having that person flying some other STAR carrier or even OW or SkyTeam airlines
I've often argued that lifetime status should be a recognition of one's lifetime of flying with AC, or any other airline offering such a program. AC and CP originally granted this lifetime status in the mid-1990s when a significant number of their older elites were starting to retire, but who had over the initial 10-15 years of Aeroplan and CP+ earned 1 MM. The idea was to retain their custom once retired and no longer flying on someone else's dime. LH's program was age related too.
The reintroduction a couple of years ago was an attempt to relaunch the recognition program, but was based on the model used by US airlines which only considered miles flown on the airline.
I realize nobody here will agree with my adjustment, but it is rather a redundant achievement for someone with a lifetime of flying ahead of them at their mid-30s. (I suppose the extra MM status is something, along with the additional eUpgrades, or are these not given if one also earns status for the following year?)
1. Segment flyers who achieve status but don't earn as many E/AQMs
2. Keeps elites flying AC through their lifetime of generally business-related flying...the current program, by granting STARGold after 1 MM could have the effect of having that person flying some other STAR carrier or even OW or SkyTeam airlines
I've often argued that lifetime status should be a recognition of one's lifetime of flying with AC, or any other airline offering such a program. AC and CP originally granted this lifetime status in the mid-1990s when a significant number of their older elites were starting to retire, but who had over the initial 10-15 years of Aeroplan and CP+ earned 1 MM. The idea was to retain their custom once retired and no longer flying on someone else's dime. LH's program was age related too.
The reintroduction a couple of years ago was an attempt to relaunch the recognition program, but was based on the model used by US airlines which only considered miles flown on the airline.
I realize nobody here will agree with my adjustment, but it is rather a redundant achievement for someone with a lifetime of flying ahead of them at their mid-30s. (I suppose the extra MM status is something, along with the additional eUpgrades, or are these not given if one also earns status for the following year?)
Aug 30, 2015, 6:53 pm
#2214
Join Date: Sep 2005
Programs: AC MM E50 , Former SPG, now Marriott LT Plat
Posts: 6,251
I would also suggest one other refinement, to make the program more meaningful.
Grant MM'ers concierge access.
Of course, I am coming at this from a selfish point of view - due to the 2014
enhancements I will not be SE for the first time next year. While I don't feel that
I should get the SE IKK for life, I do think concierge access would be a nice bone
for them to throw, and it should not be that costly to AC.
Grant MM'ers concierge access.
Of course, I am coming at this from a selfish point of view - due to the 2014
enhancements I will not be SE for the first time next year. While I don't feel that
I should get the SE IKK for life, I do think concierge access would be a nice bone
for them to throw, and it should not be that costly to AC.
Aug 30, 2015, 7:02 pm
#2215
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: YYZ
Programs: AC E50K (*Gold), DL, CZ
Posts: 1,252
I e-mailed Aeroplan and got this:
"Dear Mr. yqtyyz:
Thank you for your email.
Your balance towards Air Canada’s Million Mile program is XXX XXX miles. However, the Million Mile program is an Air Canada administered initiative and Aeroplan is unable to answer any questions pertaining to the actual criteria and corresponding details. Should you have any concerns or queries in this regard, please send them to Air Canada’s Customer Relations via fax at 1.866.584.0380 or 403.569.5333 or by mail at:
Air Canada Customer Relations
P.O. Box 64239, 5512 – 4th Street N.W.
Calgary, Alberta
T2K 6J0"
"Dear Mr. yqtyyz:
Thank you for your email.
Your balance towards Air Canada’s Million Mile program is XXX XXX miles. However, the Million Mile program is an Air Canada administered initiative and Aeroplan is unable to answer any questions pertaining to the actual criteria and corresponding details. Should you have any concerns or queries in this regard, please send them to Air Canada’s Customer Relations via fax at 1.866.584.0380 or 403.569.5333 or by mail at:
Air Canada Customer Relations
P.O. Box 64239, 5512 – 4th Street N.W.
Calgary, Alberta
T2K 6J0"
When I email customer service @aircanada.ca I get a reply from an Aeroplan agent (bot or real not sure as I keep getting the same person named for years) telling me that unfortunately this is the aeroplan customer service email
And they can't really answer aircanada related questions.
This has been like this for years so obviously Air Cananda is trying to frustrate average users and reduce follow ups.
And they can't really answer aircanada related questions.
This has been like this for years so obviously Air Cananda is trying to frustrate average users and reduce follow ups.
Aug 30, 2015, 7:04 pm
#2216
Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: I'm From Here
Programs: AC*SE & MM/*Wood Gold/HHonors Diamond/Marriott Silver/AirMiles Gold
Posts: 4,564
Aug 31, 2015, 4:57 am
#2218
Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: I'm From Here
Programs: AC*SE & MM/*Wood Gold/HHonors Diamond/Marriott Silver/AirMiles Gold
Posts: 4,564
Aug 31, 2015, 7:50 am
#2219
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Body in Downtown YYZ, heart and mind elsewhere
Programs: UA 50K, refugee from AC E50K, Marriott Lifetime Plat
Posts: 5,132
2MM seems like a near useless level. I think they should change it so that you can either gift Elite or attain lifetime E75 status for yourself.
3MM = lifetime SE which is a nice bounty to achieve, but even here on FT I doubt there are many who will hit that mark. If something is rare on FT - wow, that makes it rare indeed!
So in the end, achieving lifetime elite on AC leaves on with little real incentive to keep flying AC. I contrast this with lifetime status with SPG; now here's a program where there are incentives at the Platinum level (and even the Gold level). And these benefits are only realized if you keep staying at SPG properties. There's true incentive (in the form of benefits) to attain lifetime SPG status and once you have it, to keep using SPG.
Why can't AC understand this?
Aug 31, 2015, 9:03 am
#2220
Formerly known as jsfrSuperElite
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Hong Kong, Montreal
Programs: Air Canada SE100K-1MM, Hilton Honors Lifetime Diamond
Posts: 590
And therein lies the flaw for AC's lifetime program. 1MM = lifetime Elite which, thanks to the enhancements, give you *G lounge access and not really a whole lot more. Yes, I know there are a few eUps but are there enough to be useful? Or just enough for a couple of segments and then you're done?
2MM seems like a near useless level. I think they should change it so that you can either gift Elite or attain lifetime E75 status for yourself.
3MM = lifetime SE which is a nice bounty to achieve, but even here on FT I doubt there are many who will hit that mark. If something is rare on FT - wow, that makes it rare indeed!
So in the end, achieving lifetime elite on AC leaves on with little real incentive to keep flying AC. I contrast this with lifetime status with SPG; now here's a program where there are incentives at the Platinum level (and even the Gold level). And these benefits are only realized if you keep staying at SPG properties. There's true incentive (in the form of benefits) to attain lifetime SPG status and once you have it, to keep using SPG.
Why can't AC understand this?
2MM seems like a near useless level. I think they should change it so that you can either gift Elite or attain lifetime E75 status for yourself.
3MM = lifetime SE which is a nice bounty to achieve, but even here on FT I doubt there are many who will hit that mark. If something is rare on FT - wow, that makes it rare indeed!
So in the end, achieving lifetime elite on AC leaves on with little real incentive to keep flying AC. I contrast this with lifetime status with SPG; now here's a program where there are incentives at the Platinum level (and even the Gold level). And these benefits are only realized if you keep staying at SPG properties. There's true incentive (in the form of benefits) to attain lifetime SPG status and once you have it, to keep using SPG.
Why can't AC understand this?
It would be better if you were to compare Air Canada Million Miles with American Airlines Million Miler or Air France Platinum for life after 10 consecutive years of Platinum membership.