Aeroplan is unique in offering a status level between 25,000 and 50,000 elite qualifying miles. Their 35,000 point level isn’t Star Alliance Gold, so doesn’t entitle the member to lounge access on partners. But it has come with access to Air Canada’s own lounges. That’s changing next year.

Effective June 1, 2023, 35K no longer receive Maple Leaf Lounge access as a status benefit. They will, however still receive (2) Maple Leaf Lounge guest passes, which they can use themselves instead of giving away.

Aeroplan’s 35K members will receive other benefits, though, effective January 1, 2023:

• Priority baggage on Air Canada
  
• More upgrade credits: when selecting eUpgrades as a choice benefit they’ll receive 15 – up from 10
  
• Better “Priority Rewards” (50% discounts on redemption prices for one passenger) – they’ll extend from being valid in economy on U.S. and Canada destinations to include Mexico and the Caribbean, and to be valid in premium economy as well, so that these are equivalent to Priority Rewards earned at the 50K status level.

Higher-tier elites will appreciate this change, because it will help reduce crowding in Air Canada lounges. Some 35K members will get more value out of extra upgrades and broader use from award discounts. However on net I’d consider this a reduction in value from the 35K elite tier, which is a unique Air Canada offering.