My T.A. charges a fee of $100 per person to book flights using Aeroplan pts. for us. Is this absurd or the going rate they charge to provide this service??

It sounds steep although the T.A. does deserve something for his/her services. A more pertinant question is why you bother using a T.A. when it is just as easy to call aeroplan yourself - especially considering the liklihood that your choices may be restricted and the T.A. will have to get back to you for your decision.

Why don't you book them yourself online???<BR>Did that many times. No problems at all!

I think the $100 is a "take a hint plan". Just book on line or phone Aeroplan yourself.

My travel agent told me a few years ago, when they were still getting commissions from the airlines (they no longer do) that it was a big hassle for her to phone Aeroplan on my behalf. She was quite willing to do it, but pointed out that it was easier all round if I did that part of the planning myself. When the airlines stopped paying the TAs commissions, her agency began charging $25 to book airline tickets, and stopped booking them through the points programs altogether. It really is easier to do it yourself.

Travel Agent? That term sounds vaguely familiar.<BR>I remember learning about buggy whip manufactures in Economics 101, could they be related?

Yes, book them online yourself. It is very easy and you get to see the full range of options available for your flight dates (different departure times, connections, etc.), as opposed to someone choosing for you.<BR><BR>I'm definitely not an Air Canada fan, but I have to admit that booking rewards travel is something they have developed quite well on their website. <BR><BR>I too have booked many times on-line without any problems. If you need to change your flight after you book, you need to call the Aeroplan Centre and there is a fee of $25-$75 depending on what you want to change. All this is clearly explained on their website.

We charge $50.00.<BR>And Gavin is correct - it is basically the "take a hint plan" - it amazes me that people will pay this when they can book online for free.