Did you know that you can use your Aeroplan points for redemption on Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon? You can even mix and match Cathay Pacific flights with Star Alliance carriers. But don’t think you’ll be redeeming 75K Aeroplan points anytime soon to travel from between North America and Hong Kong…
Earlier this year, Aeroplan announced members could earn miles on select Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon flights. In June, Aeroplan added the possibility of mileage redemption on the same flights.
Here’s the bad news: redemptions are limited to the following routes to/from Hong Kong:
- Chiang Mai, Thailand (CNX)
- Phuket, Thailand (HKT)
- Bangkok, Thailand (BKK)
- Cebu, Philippines (CEB)
- Manila, Philippines (MNL)
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (KUL)
- Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (SGN)
- Hanoi, Vietnam (HAN)
That’s better than nothing, but doesn’t allow for many Cathay Pacific flights or premium products.
Telephone Reservation Only
Furthermore, reservations can only be made by telephone and the C$30 call center booking fee will not be waived. No exceptions in my experience, even though there is no possible way for you to do it yourself.
You can check Cathay Pacific space before calling using the British Airways, JAL, or Qantas online award search tools.
Combine Star Alliance and Cathay Pacific / Cathay Dragon
However, you can combine Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon (both part of oneworld) with any Star Alliance or other partner carrier. At least that opens options if you are trying to complete a trip in Southeast Asia and cannot find any award space on Thai or Singapore.
CONCLUSION
I hope the relationship between Air Canada and Cathay Pacific will grow, because the current redemption options are of limited value. Nevertheless, this is better than nothing. If you’re having trouble finding award space within Southeast Asia using your Aeroplan miles, consider checking Cathay Pacific or Cathay Dragon.
(H/T: Don’t Call the Airline)
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