Avion points cannot be directly transferred to WestJet, but strategic redemption options exist through partner programs.
Understanding Avion Points and Their Transferability
Avion points are the loyalty currency of the RBC Avion Rewards program, designed primarily for RBC credit cardholders. These points accumulate through everyday spending and can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, or statement credits. However, when it comes to transferring Avion points specifically to airline partners like WestJet, the options become limited.
Unlike some flexible reward currencies that allow seamless point transfers to multiple airline partners, Avion points do not offer a direct transfer mechanism to WestJet’s loyalty program, WestJet Rewards. This limitation is crucial for travelers aiming to maximize their rewards by consolidating points across programs.
Despite this restriction, there are indirect ways to leverage Avion points for WestJet travel. For example, Avion points can be redeemed for travel purchases or gift cards that can cover flights on WestJet. Understanding these nuances helps cardholders extract maximum value from their points without expecting a straightforward transfer.
Why Direct Transfers to WestJet Aren’t Available
WestJet operates its own distinct loyalty currency called WestJet dollars, which are earned directly through flying with WestJet or by using affiliated credit cards and partners. Unlike some major airline alliances that share frequent flyer currencies or allow point conversions, WestJet’s ecosystem remains relatively closed.
RBC Avion’s partnerships focus more broadly on major airline alliances such as Aeroplan (Air Canada’s program) and other global carriers rather than regional Canadian airlines like WestJet. This strategic partnership approach means direct Avion-to-WestJet point transfers are not part of RBC’s current offerings.
Additionally, the technical infrastructure and contractual agreements required for seamless point transfers between two distinct programs involve complex negotiations. Since RBC and WestJet have no formal partnership enabling this exchange, direct transfers remain unavailable.
Indirect Methods to Use Avion Points for WestJet Flights
Even though you can’t directly transfer Avion points to WestJet rewards, several practical workarounds let you use your points toward booking flights on WestJet:
- Travel Redemption Portal: RBC Avion allows you to redeem points directly for travel expenses booked through their travel portal. You can book flights on many airlines, including WestJet, by using your points as payment.
- Statement Credits: If you’ve booked a flight on WestJet using your RBC credit card linked with Avion points, you can redeem your points as a statement credit against that purchase.
- Gift Cards: Occasionally, RBC offers gift cards redeemable with Avion points that can be used at travel agencies or platforms selling WestJet tickets.
These options require careful planning because redemption values vary depending on how you use your points. For instance, redeeming via the travel portal often yields better value than converting to statement credits or gift cards.
Comparing Redemption Values
The value of one Avion point fluctuates based on redemption methods. Generally:
- Travel bookings via RBC portal: Average value ranges from 1 cent per point.
- Statement credits: Typically slightly less efficient at around 0.8 cents per point.
- Gift cards: Value depends on the specific offer but usually falls between 0.7–1 cent per point.
Maximizing value means prioritizing travel redemptions when possible.
The Role of Partner Programs in Point Transfers
While direct transfer from Avion to WestJet is off the table, understanding airline alliances and partnerships might open alternative routes.
For example:
- Aeroplan Partnership: RBC Avion allows transferring points to Aeroplan at a fixed ratio (typically 1:1). Aeroplan is Air Canada’s loyalty program and part of Star Alliance.
- Aeroplan Flight Redemptions: Aeroplan miles cannot be used directly on WestJet flights because WestJet left Star Alliance in 2019 and joined the Oneworld alliance starting in late 2023.
This shift means even transferring Avion points into Aeroplan miles won’t help book flights on WestJet directly. However, Oneworld alliance members may offer other redemption options if you have miles in those programs.
The Oneworld Alliance and Its Impact
WestJet officially joined Oneworld in late 2023, expanding its network but creating new dynamics in frequent flyer redemptions.
Currently:
- No direct partnership exists between RBC Avion and Oneworld programs like British Airways Executive Club or American Airlines AAdvantage.
- This limits indirect transfer options from Avion into these programs for booking WestJet flights.
Therefore, travelers hoping to convert RBC Avion points into Oneworld miles—and then book WestJet—face significant hurdles without additional credit card products or partnerships.
A Closer Look: Popular Travel Rewards Programs vs. Avion Points
| Loyalty Program | Direct Transfer From RBC Avion? | Ability To Book/Use On WestJet Flights? |
|---|---|---|
| Aeroplan (Air Canada) | Yes (1:1 transfer) | No (WestJet not part of Star Alliance) |
| WestJet Rewards | No direct transfer available | Yes (earn & redeem within program) |
| British Airways Executive Club (Oneworld) | No direct transfer available | Possible (Oneworld partner; indirect option) |
| American Airlines AAdvantage (Oneworld) | No direct transfer available | Possible (Oneworld partner; indirect option) |
| Sheraton / Marriott Bonvoy (Hotel Partners) | No direct airline transfer relevant here | No impact on booking flights with WestJet directly |
This table highlights why transferring from Avion directly into a program that books WestJet flights is difficult. The best bet remains redeeming via the RBC travel portal or statement credits.
The Impact of Credit Cards on Point Usage Flexibility
RBC offers several credit cards earning Avion points with varying benefits related to travel redemptions:
- RBC Visa Infinite Avion Card: Provides flexible redemption options including travel bookings through RBC’s platform but no special perks tied specifically to WestJet.
- WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard: Earns WestJet dollars instead of Avion points; ideal if you want seamless rewards within the WestJet ecosystem.
- Crossover Strategies: Some travelers hold both an RBC Visa Infinite earning Avion and a co-branded airline card like the WestJet Mastercard for maximum flexibility—earning different currencies tailored for specific uses.
- You earn versatile currency with one card (Avion) usable broadly across many airlines through booking portals.
- You earn targeted currency with another card designed specifically for an airline such as the WestJet Mastercard—offering perks like free checked bags or companion tickets.
These credit card choices influence how easily one can leverage rewards toward preferred airlines like WestJet. If your goal is frequent flying with WestJet and maximizing those rewards efficiently, holding a branded card earning their currency makes more sense than relying solely on transferable currencies like Avion.
The Value of Holding Multiple Reward Cards
Holding multiple cards lets travelers optimize earnings based on spending categories while gaining access to diverse redemption networks:
This strategy requires managing multiple accounts but unlocks greater flexibility than relying exclusively on one rewards program.
Key Takeaways: Can I Transfer Avion Points To WestJet?
➤ Avion points cannot be directly transferred to WestJet Rewards.
➤ Points can be redeemed for WestJet flights via RBC Rewards.
➤ Transfer options are limited and may involve partner programs.
➤ Check for promotions that might enhance point value.
➤ Review terms regularly as transfer policies can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer Avion points directly to WestJet Rewards?
No, Avion points cannot be directly transferred to WestJet Rewards. The two programs operate independently, and RBC Avion does not offer a direct transfer option to WestJet’s loyalty currency, WestJet dollars.
Why is it not possible to transfer Avion points to WestJet?
WestJet uses its own loyalty currency and has no formal partnership with RBC Avion. The lack of technical agreements and distinct program structures prevent direct point transfers between Avion and WestJet.
Are there indirect ways to use Avion points for WestJet flights?
Yes, you can redeem Avion points through RBC’s travel portal or for gift cards that can be used to book WestJet flights. These methods allow you to leverage your points for WestJet travel without direct transfers.
Can I convert Avion points to another airline program that partners with WestJet?
Currently, there are no known airline programs that accept Avion points and also allow transfers to WestJet. Avion mainly partners with major global carriers, but WestJet’s ecosystem remains separate.
What is the best way to maximize Avion points for flying on WestJet?
The best approach is to redeem your Avion points for travel purchases or gift cards via RBC’s platform, which can then be applied toward WestJet flights. This indirect method helps you enjoy WestJet travel using your Avion points.