Emirates and Air Canada have expanded their partnership to offer frequent flyer members joint loyalty program benefits. Emirates Skywards members can now earn and redeem Miles on all flights operated by Air Canada — accessing a network of more than 220 destinations worldwide.

Aeroplan members will also benefit from earning and redeeming Points on all flights operated by Emirates — with access to more than 130 destinations across six continents, via the airline's home and hub, Dubai.

The agreement was signed yesterday by Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, divisional senior vice president Emirates Skywards, and Mark Youssef Nasr, senior vice president, Product, Marketing, e-Commerce, Air Canada and president, Aeroplan, at the Emirates Group Headquarters in Dubai.

"We're very pleased to be enhancing our partnership with Air Canada and officially kicking off our joint loyalty program offering. Together, close to 40 million frequent flyer members will be able to earn and redeem Miles across a joint network of more than 350 destinations and enjoy selected benefits, such as lounge access. We look forward to opening new horizons for our loyal members and to also welcoming Aeroplan customers on-board Emirates with our award-winning products and exceptional services," Khedher said.

"The two most recognized loyalty programs in their respective regions provided by the two most recognized airlines in their respective regions are coming together to offer something truly great.

Whether it's connecting friends and family from Canada's rich immigrant diaspora or it's helping travelers explore some of the world's most exciting destinations, there's something for everyone. We're proud to partner with Emirates and Skywards as Aeroplan continues to deliver on its member promise: travel more and travel better," Nasr said.