Air Canada Aeroplan has published the changes it will be making to the elite program next year so members who are working toward qualifying or requalifying for elite this year will know what benefits they will receive in 2013.

The biggest change is the introduction of two new elite tiers. Frequent flyers can qualify for 2013 elite levels at 25,000 miles or 25 segments, 35,000 miles or 35 segments, 50,000 miles or 50 segments, 75,000 miles or 75 segments and 100,000 miles or 95 segments. Currently, the elite levels are Prestige at 25,000 miles or 25 segments, Elite at 35,000 miles or 50 segments and Super Elite at 100,000 miles or 95 segments.

The Prestige and Super Elite levels are staying the same but the mid-tier Elite level will be changing. Elite members qualifying with segments will need only 35 instead of 50 segments to qualify. Members who achieve the 35,000-mile, 35-segment elite tier will receive Star Alliance Silver instead of Gold status in 2013. Star Alliance Silver members do not receive lounge access to Star Alliance lounges worldwide, but members can choose Star Alliance Lounge access as a Select Privilege.

To stay informed about the new levels and benefits, visit http://www.aircanada.com/toptier2013 or follow the program on Twitter at @ACTopTier. The program expects to announce the names of the new tiers along with a full overview of the benefits of each tier by early summer.