This invention relates to a process for the preparation of a fluid catalytic cracking catalyst with improved attrition resistance. According to this preparation process, an aqueous slurry comprising a zeolite, day, and poly aluminum chloride is spray-dried and subsequently calcined, the poly aluminum chloride having the formula [Al.sub.2(OH).sub.yCl.sub.6-y].sub.x, wherein x is at least 1 and y is greater than 2 and smaller than 4.