Air Canada's loyalty program, Aeroplan , is a favorite among points and miles enthusiasts ... and for good reason. It's easy to earn Aeroplan points , and the redemption rates are great, with plenty of sweet spots.

Unlike some major U.S. loyalty programs, Aeroplan still publishes award charts for most partner flights. However, Air Canada flights and flights operated by a group of "select partners" now use variable pricing, while most other partner awards remain fixed according to Aeroplan's distance- and region-based charts.

Aeroplan's Star Alliance membership also makes it a highly valuable rewards program.

Given its many pluses, we've rounded up the best ways to use Air Canada Aeroplan points for maximum value.

You can redeem Aeroplan points for flights to more than 1,300 destinations on 45-plus airline partners worldwide. Partners include Star Alliance carriers and some nonalliance partners like Azul Brazilian Airlines, Bamboo Airways and Etihad Airways. Many partner airlines can also be combined on the same award itinerary, though some carrier-specific restrictions apply.

Aeroplan's award chart is valuable for short-haul economy flights or international premium cabin seats, particularly on partner airlines.

Air Canada makes every seat it operates available for redemption, but award pricing varies. Aeroplan also uses variable pricing for flights operated by select partners, including United Airlines, Emirates, Flydubai, Etihad, Canadian North, Calm Air, Bearskin Airlines and PAL Airlines. Most other partner awards continue to be priced at fixed rates according to the published award chart.

The Aeroplan program uses a hybrid award chart that factors in the distance you fly and the departure and arrival regions.