How Canadians Can Fly Air France with points

You can fly Air France with Points. Air France represents a great opportunity for Canadians to fly to Europe on points.

In the dynamic realm of aviation, few airlines manage to capture the essence of sophistication, comfort, and unrivaled service quite like Air France. As a stalwart in the industry, this iconic carrier has set itself apart through a legacy of excellence that spans nearly a century. From its inaugural flight in 1933 to its present-day status as a global leader in air travel, Air France has continually elevated the flying experience, making it synonymous with refined luxury and impeccable service.

At the heart of Air France’s greatness lies an unwavering commitment to passenger satisfaction. The airline has meticulously cultivated an atmosphere that transcends the ordinary, turning each journey into an unforgettable odyssey. Boasting a fleet of state-of-the-art aircraft, Air France seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with timeless elegance. From the moment passengers step aboard, they are enveloped in an ambiance of sophistication, where every detail is designed to cater to the discerning traveler.

Beyond the physical comforts, Air France has mastered the art of personalized service. The airline’s attentive and highly trained cabin crew anticipates the needs of passengers, ensuring a seamless and delightful experience from takeoff to landing. This dedication to customer care is not merely a service—it’s a philosophy that runs through the very veins of Air France, creating an atmosphere that transcends mere transportation and transforms each flight into a voyage of unparalleled luxury.

In an era where travel is as much about the journey as the destination, Air France stands as a beacon of excellence, offering a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation that defines the epitome of air travel. As we delve into the intricacies that make Air France soar above the rest, it becomes evident that this airline is not merely a carrier of passengers but a purveyor of unparalleled moments, making every flight a celebration of the art of travel.

In this post, we’ll walk through how Canadians can book flights with Air France, and how Canadians can leverage the Flying Blue program to travel to Europe via Air France.

Stay up to Date on the Latest Travel Deals

What is Air France?

Air France is the flag carrier and largest airline of France, with its headquarters located in Tremblay-en-France, near Paris. Established in 1933, Air France has grown into one of the world’s prominent airlines, known for its extensive international and domestic flight network, high standards of service, and a legacy of innovation in the aviation industry.

As a key player in the global aviation sector, Air France operates a modern and diverse fleet of aircraft, serving destinations across Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. The airline is a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance, which enhances its global reach through partnerships with other major airlines.

Over the years, Air France has played a pivotal role in shaping the aviation industry, introducing innovations and contributing to the advancement of air travel. The airline’s iconic branding, featuring the distinctive red, white, and blue colors of the French flag on its aircraft, symbolizes both national pride and a commitment to excellence.

Where Does Air France Fly in Canada

Air France flies directly to Paris from the following Canadian cities:

• Vancouver
• Toronto Pearson
• Ottawa
• Montreal
• Quebec City

Air France Fleet

Air France operates a diverse fleet of aircraft to serve its extensive network of domestic and international routes. The Air France fleet consists of the following airplanes

• Airbus A318
• Airbus A319
• Airbus A320
• Airbus A321
• Airbus A330 (international)
• Embraer
• Airbus A350 (international)
• Boeing 777 (international)
• Boeing 787 Dreamliner (international)

Air France has been progressively modernizing its fleet, introducing more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly aircraft. The Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner are examples of the latest generation of long-haul aircraft that offer improved fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and environmental performance.

Air France In-Cabin Experieces

the Air France in-cabin experience consists of 4 classes:

Economy Class

Air France’s Economy Class, often referred to as “Voyageur” or “Economy,” is designed to offer passengers a comfortable and affordable travel experience. Here are some key features of Air France’s Economy Class:

• Seating: Economy Class cabins typically feature a standard 3-4-3 seating configuration on long-haul flights (including the flights from Canada), providing a reasonable level of comfort for passengers. The seats are designed with ergonomic considerations to enhance comfort during the journey.

• In-Flight Entertainment: Passengers in Economy Class can enjoy a selection of in-flight entertainment options. This may include a personal touchscreen monitor with a variety of movies, TV shows, music, and games to choose from. Some newer aircraft in the fleet may offer enhanced entertainment systems.
• Dining: Air France provides complimentary meals and beverages to Economy Class passengers. The menu often reflects a mix of international and French cuisine, showcasing the airline’s commitment to delivering a quality dining experience. Special meal options may be available for passengers with dietary restrictions or preferences.
• Amenities: Passengers are typically provided with a blanket, pillow, and headphones for their comfort during the flight. Additionally, the airline may offer amenities such as amenity kits on certain long-haul routes.
• Connectivity: Air France has been progressively introducing in-flight Wi-Fi on some of its aircraft, allowing passengers to stay connected during their journey. Keep in mind that the availability of Wi-Fi may vary depending on the specific aircraft and route.
• Service: Air France is known for its attentive and friendly cabin crew, who strive to ensure that passengers have a pleasant and enjoyable flight experience. Despite being in the Economy Class, passengers can expect a level of service that reflects the airline’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

It’s important to note that the specific amenities and services offered in Economy Class can vary based on the aircraft type, route, and any updates or changes made by the airline. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, passengers should check Air France’s official website or contact the airline directly

Premium Economy

Air France offers a Premium Economy Class, known as “Premium Voyageur.” Premium Economy is designed to provide passengers with an enhanced travel experience compared to traditional Economy Class. Please note that details may have changed since my last update, so it’s recommended to check the official Air France website or contact the airline directly for the latest information. Here are some general features of Air France Premium Economy:

• Seating: Premium Economy cabins typically feature seats with increased legroom and additional seat recline compared to standard Economy Class seats. The seats are often arranged in a 2-4-2 or 2-3-2 configuration, offering a more spacious and comfortable environment.
• In-Flight Entertainment: Passengers in Premium Economy enjoy an upgraded in-flight entertainment experience with larger personal screens, a wider selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games. Some aircraft may feature noise-canceling headphones for a more immersive experience.
• Dining: Premium Economy passengers receive an upgraded dining experience with a higher quality of meals, often inspired by French cuisine. The menu may include a selection of appetizers, main courses, desserts, and complimentary beverages, including wine and Champagne.
• Amenities: Premium Economy passengers are provided with enhanced amenities, such as a travel kit with comfort items, a larger pillow, and a cozy blanket. Some flights may also offer priority boarding and dedicated cabin space for a more exclusive and comfortable experience.
• Connectivity: Depending on the aircraft, Premium Economy passengers may have access to in-flight Wi-Fi to stay connected during the journey.
• Service: Premium Economy passengers benefit from dedicated and attentive cabin crew service, ensuring a more personalized and comfortable travel experience.

Air France’s Premium Economy Class caters to passengers seeking a higher level of comfort and service without the cost of a Business Class ticket. It is an excellent option for travelers looking to enjoy additional amenities and space during their journey. Keep in mind that specific features can vary based on the aircraft type and route, so it’s advisable to check with Air France for the most up-to-date information on their Premium Economy offering.

Business Class

Here are some general features of Air France Business Class:

• Seating: Business Class cabins are designed to provide passengers with a high level of comfort and privacy. Seats are typically arranged in a 1-2-1 or 2-2-2 configuration, allowing direct aisle access for each passenger. Some aircraft may feature fully flat-bed seats, providing a more restful experience during long-haul flights.
• In-Flight Entertainment: Business Class passengers enjoy an extensive selection of in-flight entertainment options on larger personal screens. The entertainment system may include a variety of movies, TV shows, music, and games. Noise-canceling headphones are often provided for an immersive experience.
• Dining: Air France’s Business Class offers a premium dining experience with gourmet meals prepared by renowned chefs. The menu typically includes a selection of appetizers, main courses, desserts, and a variety of beverages, including fine wines and Champagne. Passengers may also have the flexibility to order meals at their preferred time during the flight.
• Amenities: Business Class passengers receive an enhanced amenity kit with luxury toiletries, comfortable bedding, and other travel essentials. On some flights, you may find additional amenities such as pajamas and slippers.
• Lounge Access: Business Class passengers have access to Air France lounges and partner lounges at airports, providing a comfortable and exclusive pre-flight experience with amenities like premium food and beverage options, showers, and business facilities.
• Service: Business Class passengers benefit from personalized and attentive service from the cabin crew, ensuring a seamless and luxurious travel experience.
• Priority Services: Business Class passengers often enjoy priority services such as expedited check-in, security screening, and boarding.

Here is a review of the Air France Business Class experience by Youtuber Nonstop Dan

Air France La Premiere

Air France’s La Première is the airline’s most luxurious and exclusive class of service, often referred to as First Class. La Première is designed to provide passengers with the highest level of comfort, privacy, and personalized service. Please note that details may have changed, and it’s recommended to check the official Air France website or contact the airline directly for the latest information. Here are some general features of Air France La Première:

• Seating: La Première cabins typically feature spacious and private suites with fully enclosed seating areas. The seats can often convert into fully flat beds for a restful sleep during long-haul flights. Each suite is designed to provide a high degree of privacy, often with a curtain or sliding door.
• In-Flight Entertainment: Passengers in La Première enjoy an extensive selection of in-flight entertainment on large personal screens. The entertainment system may include a variety of movies, TV shows, music, and games. Noise-canceling headphones and premium audio-visual equipment contribute to an immersive experience.
• Dining: La Première passengers experience gourmet dining with a menu crafted by renowned chefs. The menu often features a range of exquisite dishes, accompanied by a selection of fine wines and Champagne. Passengers may have the flexibility to order meals at their preferred time.
• Amenities: La Première passengers receive a luxurious amenity kit with high-end toiletries, bedding, and other travel essentials. Some flights may also provide additional amenities such as pajamas, slippers, and skincare products.
• Lounge Access: La Première passengers have exclusive access to Air France lounges and partner lounges at airports. These lounges offer a premium pre-flight experience with amenities like gourmet dining, spa services, and private relaxation areas.
• Service: La Première is synonymous with personalized and attentive service. Passengers in this class enjoy the dedicated attention of highly trained cabin crew, ensuring a seamless and indulgent travel experience.
• Priority Services: La Première passengers benefit from a range of priority services, including expedited check-in, security screening, and boarding.

Air France’s La Première is designed for discerning travelers seeking the utmost in luxury and exclusivity.

How Do I Book Air France Flights with Points

Flying Blue is the frequent flyer program of KLM and its partner airlines within the Air France-KLM group, including Air France, KLM, and several other airlines. Members of Flying Blue can earn miles or points by flying with these airlines or their affiliated partners, and they can redeem these miles or points for various benefits such as flight tickets, seat upgrades, hotel stays, car rentals, and other travel-related services.

Earning Flying Blue Miles

THERE ARE 4 WAYS IN WHICH YOU CAN EARN FLYING BLUE MILES

You can also buy points here

1. TRANSFERRING MEMBERSHIP REWARDS TO KLM/FLYING BLUE

This is the easiest way to earn Flying Blue Miles

You can earn a high amount of Flying Blue Miles by transferring out your American Express Membership Rewards. 

Membership Rewards (MR) is the travel currency earned directly through American Express credit cards. 

One of, if not the best reason for you to start collecting American Express Membership Rewards is that you can transfer your MR to a bevy of transfer partners including: 

• Air Canada/Aeroplan
• British Airways Executive Club 
• Air France/KLM
• Asia Miles 
• Delta Airways Sky Miles
• Etihad Guest
• Marriott Bonvoy Points
• Hilton Honours Points

1,000 Membership Rewards will give you 750 Flying Blue Miles

How to Earn Membership Rewards

You can earn Membership Rewards through a number of credit cards offered by American Express 

The American Express Platinum Card is a great way to earn Membership Rewards

Sign up Here

The $799 annual fee (which comes with a $150 rebate through GreatCanadianRebates) is offset by the following perks & benefits:

• Sign-up Bonus:
  • 70,000 MR points upon spending $10,000 in the first three months
  • 30,000 MR points upon making a purchase between months 14-17 of cardmembership
• Earn Rate: 
  • 2 MR points per dollar spent on travel, groceries & dining
  • 1 MR point everywhere else
• Insurance:
  • Emergency Medical Travel Insurance – up to $5,000,000
  • Car rental damage insurance 
  • Trip Cancellation Insurance- up to $3,000
  • Hotel Burglary insurance – up to $1,000
  • Baggage delay insurance – up to $1,000
  • Lost or stolen baggage insurance – up to $1,000
• Perks
  • $200 annual travel credit
  • $200 annual dining credit
  • Special discounts for cardholders, which are sent via email
  • $100 Nexus credit
  • Instant Gold status at Marriott Bonvoy
  • Instant Gold status at Hilton Honours
  • Access to Pearson Priority Security Lane during peak operating times
  • Complimentary valet service at the Express Park and Daily Park at Pearson Airport
• Lounge Access
  • Priority Pass (+1 guest)
  • Plaza Premium Lounges (+1 guest)
  • Delta Sky Club
  • Airspace Lounges (+2 guests)
  • Centurion Lounges
  • SwissPort Lounges (+1 guest)

There are a number of other cards that allow you to earn Membership Rewards including:

American Express Business Platinum – 90,000 Membership Rewards

American Express Business Gold – 70,000 Membership Rewards

American Express Business Edge – 45,000 Membership Rewards

American Express Personal Gold – 60,000 Membership Rewards

American Express Cobalt Card – 30,000 Membership Rewards

2. EARN FLYING BLUE MILES BY SIGNING UP FOR THE BRIM FINANCIAL KLM/FLYING BLUE WORLD ELITE MASTERCARD

The Air France/KLM World Elite Mastercard is a co-branded credit card offered by Brim Financial in partnership with Air France and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. This credit card is designed for frequent travelers who frequently fly with Air France, KLM, and their partner airlines. By using this credit card for everyday purchases, cardholders can earn miles in the Flying Blue frequent flyer program, which can be redeemed for flights, seat upgrades, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses.

The card comes with a $139 annual fee, and comes with the following benefits:

• Sign-up Bonus
  • 10,000 Flying Blue miles upon first purchase
  • 10,000 Flying Blue miles upon spending $5,000 (all figures in CAD) in the first year
  • 10,000 Flying Blue miles upon spending an additional $10,000 in the first year
  • 30,000 Flying Blue miles upon renewing the card for a second year
    • Total of 60,000 Flying Blue Miles

• Earn Rate
  • 5 bonus miles per euro spent on Air France and KLM flights
  • Up to 30 miles per dollar spent on Brim merchant partners
  • 2 miles per dollar spent on food & dining
  • 1 mile per dollar spent on everything else
• Insurance
  • Car rental insurance – up to $85,000
  • Trip cancellation insurance – up to $2,000
  • Trip interruption insurance – up to $5,000
  • Baggage delay insurance – up to $1,000
  • Flight delay insurance – up to $500
• Perks
  • Free Boingo Wi-Fi
  • 30XP points yearly upon renewal

If you frequently fly with Air France, KLM, or their partner airlines, this card can be beneficial due to the miles you can earn for your purchases. The ability to earn miles that can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other travel-related expenses can be a significant perk for loyal customers of these airlines

Consider the value of the sign-up bonus and whether you can meet the spending requirements to earn it. The 60,000 Flying Blue miles will provide a substantial boost to your mileage balance.

3. YOU CAN TRANSFER US TRAVEL POINTS TO KLM/FLYING BLUE

If you are in a position to secure US credit cards, you can earn Flying Blue Miles by applying for a number of US credit cards including:

• KLM/Flying Blue World Elite Mastercard

You’ll also have the ability to transfer your US miles to Flying Blue Miles. These transfer partners include:

• American Express Membership Rewards (1:1 ratio)
• Capital One Miles (1:1 ratio)
• Chase Ultimate Rewards (1:1 ratio)
• Citi Thank You Miles (1:1 ratio)

4. EARN FLYING BLUE MILES BY FLYING WITH KLM, AIR FRANCE & THEIR PARTNER AIRLINES

You can earn Flying Blue miles by flying with Air France, KLM, and their partner airlines.

When you fly with Air France or KLM, you can earn Flying Blue miles based on the distance flown, fare class, and your Flying Blue membership tier. The number of miles you earn will vary depending on these factors. Additionally, you can also earn Flying Blue miles by flying with other SkyTeam alliance partners and various non-alliance airline partners.

Partner airlines that allow you to earn Flying Blue Miles include:

SkyTeam Partners:

• Aerolinas Argentinas.
• Aeromexico
• Air Europa
• Air France
• China Airlines
• China Eastern Airlines
• Czech Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Garuda Indonesia
• ITA Airways
• Kenya Airways
• KLM
• Korean Air
• Middle East Airlines
• Saudia
• Tarom
• Vietnam Airlines
• Xiamen Air

For tickets purchased with another airline, that are credited to Flying Blue, you’ll earn miles based on:

• Distance flown.
• Fare class.
• Operating airline.
• Your elite status tier.

Each airline partner awards a different number of miles

Non-SkyTeam Partners:

• Air Corsica
• Air Mauritius
• Bangkok Airways
• Chalair Aviation
• Copa Airlines
• Gol
• Japan Airlines
• Malaysia Airlines
• Qantas
• Transavia
• Twin Jet
• Virgin Atlantic
• WestJet
• airBaltic

It’s important to provide your Flying Blue membership number when booking your flights to ensure that the miles are credited to your account. You can then accumulate these miles and use them for various benefits, such as booking award flights, seat upgrades, and other travel-related services within the Flying Blue program.

REDEEMING FLYING BLUE MILES

The Flying Blue program uses a dynamic pricing method for redemptions. Dynamic pricing means you’ll pay more points when cash fares cost more. For example, you may see a spike in the points needed for an Air France flight around the holidays.

As a starting point, Canadians can use this interactive map to explore where they can go using their miles. The map displays introductory (AKA, the lowest) redemption options.

Below, you’ll see the lowest redemption option for an economy flight from Paris to Quebec City.

HOW TO REDEEM FLYING BLUE MILES

Step 1: Go to AirFrance.us, & log in at the top right-hand corner

Step 2: Select your departure and arrival city

If you leave the date blank, you will be able to search multiple dates

Step 3: Select your date, & flight

Flying Blue Miles represents a great way to fly to Europe from Canada on points

Fly to Paris from Canada on Points

Fly to Rome from Canada on Points

Fly to Prague from Canada on Points

Earning Status with Air France

Flying Blue, the frequent flyer program of Air France and KLM, has an elite status program known as Flying Blue Elite. Flying Blue Elite status is divided into several tiers, each offering varying benefits and privileges to frequent flyers.

There are three elite status tiers in the Flying Blue program: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Each tier requires a specific number of Level Miles or qualifying flights to attain. Once you reach a certain tier, you will enjoy the benefits associated with that level for the remainder of the current year and the following year.

Silver Status: Requires 100 XP (Experience Points) or 30 qualifying flights.

Silver status comes with the following benefits:

• 1 free checked bag on flights operated by Air France, KLM, Aircalin, Air Corsica, Air Mauritius, China Southern Airlines, Qantas, and SkyTeam partners
• SkyTeam Elite status
• Priority check-in, baggage drop-off and boarding
• 25% discount on seat selection with most partner airlines
• 6 Flying Blue miles per €1 spent on flights

Gold Status: Requires 180 XP or 60 qualifying flights.

Gold status comes with the following benefits:

• 1 free checked bag on flights operated by Air France, KLM, Aircalin, Air Corsica, Air Mauritius, China Southern Airlines, Qantas, and SkyTeam partners
• SkyTeam Elite status
• Priority check-in, baggage drop-off and boarding
• Free lounge access on international flights operated by Air France, KLM, Air Mauritius, China Southern Airways, GOL, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic or a SkyTeam partner
• SkyTeam Elite Plus status
• 50% discount on seat selection with most partner airlines
• Earn 7 Flying Blue miles per €1 spent on flights

Platinum Status: Requires 300 XP or 100 qualifying flights.

Platinum status comes with the following benefits:

• 1 free checked bag on flights operated by Air France, KLM, Aircalin, Air Corsica, Air Mauritius, China Southern Airlines, Qantas, and SkyTeam partners
• SkyTeam Elite status
• Priority check-in, baggage drop-off and boarding
• Free lounge access on international flights operated by Air France, KLM, Air Mauritius, China Southern Airways, GOL, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic or a SkyTeam partner
• SkyTeam Elite Plus status
• 100% discount on seat selection with most partner airlines
• Earn 7 Flying Blue miles per €1 spent on flights

HOW TO EARN XP

You can Earn XP in 2 Different Ways

1. Flying With KLM/Flying Blue

You can earn XP by flying with KLM, Air France, or their travel partners. The amount of XP earned will depend on the distance flown, and the flight class

	Domestic	International (0-2,000 miles)	International (2,000-3,500 miles)	International (3,500-5,000 miles)	International (5,000+ miles)
Economy	2 XPs.	5 XPs.	8 XPs.	10 XPs.	12 XPs.
Premium economy	4 XPs.	10 XPs.	16 XPs.	20 XPs.	24 XPs.
Business class	6 XPs.	15 XPs.	24 XPs.	30 XPs.	36 XPs.
First class	10 XPs.	25 XPs.	40 XPs.	50 XPs.	60 XPs.

2. Getting XP with the Flying Blue Mastercard

If you are an owner of the KLM/Flying Blue World Elite Mastercard, you’ll earn 30 XP at every renewal. New cardholders will earn an additional 30XP upon approval.

Conclusion

Air France stands as a paragon of excellence in the realm of air travel, weaving a tapestry of sophistication, comfort, and unparalleled service that transcends the ordinary. Whether one finds oneself nestled in the opulence of La Première, savoring the gourmet delights of Business Class, or embracing the refined comforts of Premium Economy and Economy, Air France remains committed to elevating every journey into an unforgettable odyssey.

With an unwavering dedication to passenger satisfaction, a modern and diverse fleet, and a timeless commitment to French elegance, Air France continues to soar above the clouds, symbolizing the artistry of travel and the promise of a journey well worth taking.

Flying with Air France using Flying Blue points adds an extra layer of delight to the journey, transforming travel into a rewarding experience. The Flying Blue loyalty program, seamlessly integrated with Air France, opens the door to a world of possibilities for frequent flyers. As passengers accumulate points through flights, partner airlines, or affiliated credit cards, they unlock a treasure trove of benefits.