CALGARY — WestJet has announced the long-term extension of its partnership agreement with Mastercard on its travel rewards credit card, WestJet RBC Mastercard.

The news comes “amid the turbulent loyalty landscape in Canada,” says WestJet.

Air Canada recently finalized its Aug. 2018 agreement to acquire Aeroplan in a $450 million deal.

“WestJet RBC Mastercard cardholders have always had choice, flexibility, certainty and convenience,” said Ed Sims, WestJet President and CEO. “Our long-term partnership with Mastercard ensures that our card members continue to get exceptional value and outstanding flight and travel benefits. As WestJet moves to become a premium global network airline, our partnership with Mastercard and RBC provides best-in-class value to our guests.”

“As one of the top travel rewards cards in Canada, the WestJet RBC Mastercard will continue to give our clients who fly with WestJet benefits that enhance their overall travel experience,” added Athena Varmazis, Senior Vice-President, Cards, RBC. “We know that Canadians appreciate consistency and transparency in their loyalty program, so we’re thrilled that our key partners, WestJet and Mastercard, have extended their agreement which ensures we can continue to deliver unparalleled value to our cardholders.”

The number-one-ranked airline credit card in Canada⁺, according to Rewards Canada’s Top Travel Rewards Credit Cards for 2018, the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard allows the primary cardholder to take a companion on an annual roundtrip flight on the same itinerary starting from $99, depending on route, plus taxes, fees and charges.

The card also provides the first checked bag at no charge for the primary cardholder as well as up to eight additional guests travelling on the same reservation and offers a welcome bonus of 250 WestJet dollars.