Our Verdict
The American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card earns high marks for delivering an exceptional suite of travel benefits that genuinely enhance the flying experience for frequent Air Canada passengers. The welcome bonus alone can provide over $2,500 in travel value, while ongoing benefits like lounge access, priority services, and companion tickets can deliver thousands more in annual value. The metal card's comprehensive travel insurance, including $5 million in medical coverage and extensive trip protection, rivals standalone travel insurance policies, adding substantial peace of mind for international travelers. Where the card falls short is accessibility and everyday value. The hefty $599 annual fee creates a high bar for justification, requiring significant travel frequency and Air Canada loyalty to break even. The lack of accelerated earning on groceries and gas, categories where many Canadians spend heavily, limits its appeal as a primary card for non-travel purchases. Additionally, American Express acceptance remains limited compared to Visa or Mastercard, potentially requiring a backup payment method. Despite these limitations, for Air Canada frequent flyers who value premium travel experiences and can fully utilize the extensive benefits package, the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card delivers outstanding value that justifies its premium positioning.
8.4 / 10
- Earn up to 6x points per $1 spent
- Earn a welcome bonus of 50,000
- No foreign transactions fees
- Travel perks and insurance
- You'll pay an annual fee of $120
- Amex is not as widely accepted as Visa and Mastercard
Requirements
Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who is at least 18 years old (19 in some provinces) You will also need to provide the following documents and information:
