(July 5 – 15:00) – Royal Bank today announced the introduction of the Visa AVION Gold, a flexible travel rewards loyalty program. The AVION card will replace Royal Bank’s Canadian Plus Visa card. Until their December 2000 statement, cardholders will continue to earn Canadian Plus points toward award travel.

“Royal Bank has worked closely with Canadian Airlines to ensure that the best interests of our customers were front and centre,” said Marlene Thompson, Royal Bank’s vice president, value added programs, loyalty and partnerships, card services. “Royal Bank Canadian Plus Visa cardholders will have the flexibility to continue to earn points on Canadian Airlines while being introduced to our new Royal Bank Visa AVION Gold.”

AVION Gold cardholders will continue to earn points toward free flights. Beginning in September, Royal Bank will offer business and vacation travelers AVION points toward flights on scheduled airlines with no black out periods and fewer restrictions on seats, flight times and destinations. AVION’s pricing, features and benefits are identical to the Canadian Plus Visa product.

“Customers told us they want a credit card that allows them to earn points toward free travel without being restricted to only one airline carrier,” added Thompson.

The launch of Royal Bank Visa AVION Gold cards follows the announcement of the merger of Canadian Airlines’ Canadian Plus frequent flyer program with Air Canada’s Aeroplan program, effective January 1, 2001.

Royal Bank Visa AVION Gold cards are being mailed to existing clients starting July 5.
-IE Staff