Air Canada

Air Canada has a long-standing legacy of serving millions of flyers with its innovative and quality services. Its continued commitment generates an impressive revenue of over CA$ 21.8 billion, proving a superior travel experience every year.

Air Canada Airlines: Your Comprehensive Guide to Flying High

As the largest airline and flag carrier in the nation, Air Canada builds the pillars of aviation in Canada. Its reliability and expansive service network features 353 aircraft serving 192 destinations. Until 1965, Air Canada was known as the Trans-Canada Air Lines. The airlines boast subsidiaries including Cargo, Express, Jetz, and Rouge, and an association with Star Alliance. Its exceptional service and global recognition truly make it count among the leading ones. Here's all about the airlines, their booking process, policies, in-flight services, and much more.

Booking a Flight with Air Canada

Air Canada manages a marvelous fleet of short-haul performers and long-haul champions. With every aircraft, the airlines guarantee a comfortable and exciting journey for every passenger.

Booking your trip is as easy as a few clicks.

• Visit aircanada.com and click on "Flights" from the right-hand menu to start.
• Input Your Journey Details:

Select one-way or round trip.

Enter your departure and arrival locations.

Pick your departure and return dates.

Choose the number of passengers (options include adults, youth, child, infant on seat, or infant on lap).

If you have one, enter any promo code, then click "Search."

In just a few seconds, a list of flight options appears:

• View Fare Options: See prices for different cabins – Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class – for each date.
• Select Your Fare: Compare fare types (amenities and prices vary) and choose the one that suits your needs.

Next, enter personal details:

• Full name, gender, date of birth, and loyalty program information.
• Specify any dietary restrictions or accessibility needs (wheelchair, disability assistance, etc.).

Lastly, add your contact info:

• Email, phone number, and select your preferred notification language (English or French). After reviewing, complete the payment and receive your confirmation soon.

TIP: Whenever booking a flight, look out for special promotions.

It is smart to book during less busy hours to find cheaper deals.

What Happens If I Need to Cancel or Change My Flight? Will I Qualify for a Refund?

Cancelling or changing flights can be challenging if you are not aware of the airline’s policy. Air Canada maintains clear guidelines for those who have a shift in plan after booking:

Passengers who cancel their booking within 24 hours of booking are eligible for a full refund to their original payment method. If you choose to make a new booking, be careful about any fare difference.

After 24 hours, refund eligibility depends on the specific fare rules. Check the details available on your Trip Review page and itinerary receipt.

Full refunds are provided if:

• Air Canada cancels your flight.
• Your flight is delayed by 3 hours or more.

You are rebooked with different airports, extra stopovers, or downgraded on U.S. itineraries.

Cancellation tips

Cancel online if booked via the official site/app (at least 2 hours pre-departure).

Note: Cancellation fees may apply beyond the 24-hour window.

• If you are planning to change your flight, the airlines may incur a fee from $75 to $500.

Always:

Make modifications well ahead of departure, especially for connecting flights.

• Review your travel insurance for coverage.
• Call Air Canada's hotline at (1-866-426-9221) for immediate support.

Upgrading Your Air Canada Flight

To upgrade your flight, visit aircanada.com and navigate to Home → Plan → Travel Info → Upgrade Your Flight. You can choose to upgrade to Business Class or Premium Rouge.

Air Canada offers biddable upgrades based on behind-the-scenes factors like seat availability. Note that Economy Basic fares aren't eligible for bid upgrades. Codeshare flights qualify only if they're operated by Air Canada and part of its ticket stock.

Bids must be placed more than 48 hours before departure and cover one flight leg only. Remember, when bidding for a group, it's an all-or-nothing offer. While higher bids may improve your chances, they do not guarantee an upgrade.

Understanding Air Canada's Baggage Policy

Under Air Canada's baggage policy, passengers can bring:

• One standard article not exceeding 55 cm x 23 cm x 40 cm and 50 lbs.
• One personal item not exceeding 33 cm x 16 cm x 43 cm (including wheels and handles).
• An extra article is permitted for infants.
• It is important to note that personal items/ bags must be manageable for overhead storage.
• Checked bag allowances and fees can be confirmed online or at kiosks. Not every airport accepts cash; thus, it is important to be handy with other forms of payment.
• The overweight/ extra baggage fee may range from CA$ 100 or more, depending upon fare type and route.

Traveling with Unaccompanied Minors? Know the Policy

Traveling with an unaccompanied minor? Air Canada offers a dedicated service for children flying alone on:

• Non-stop flights by Air Canada or Air Canada Rouge.
• Non-stop Air Canada Express flights (operated by Jazz).

Important details:

• A parent or responsible adult must remain at the airport until departure.
• The service isn't available on connecting or codeshare flights due to the complexities of transferring minors.

 

Age requirements:

• Under 8: Service is not available; must be accompanied by an adult (16+) seated adjacent.
• 8–11: Mandatory service.
• 12–17: Optional service.

Know before you book:

• Unaccompanied minors are not eligible to travel with pets.
• Only adult passengers (16+) can accompany those under 12.
• Air Canada’s unaccompanied minor service ranges from CA$ 100–$118 each way/ per child.

Air Canada Web Check-In

Begin your journey with a fast, efficient check‑in using Air Canada's online tools—available 24 hours ahead of departure.

• Simply log in via our website or Air Canada app and enter your booking details: a 6‑character reference, Aeroplan number, or 13‑digit ticket number.
• Provide the necessary travel documents (plus a U.S. stay address when applicable), choose or change your seat, and update your baggage information.
• Your boarding pass is then ready for printing or mobile delivery, letting you skip the airport queues.
• Note that passengers like unaccompanied minors, those with special requests, or on partner flights must complete check‑in with an agent and not online.

Is There Any In-Flight Entertainment?

Yes, Air Canada hosts a wholesome entertainment system, making sure every passenger enjoys their time flying. The in-flight system includes:

• Blockbuster Movies & Trending TV Shows for a cinematic journey
• Diverse Music Options & Audiobooks to relax and recharge
• Sports, News, and Games for the engaged traveler

Wi‑Fi is available for purchase with:

• Hourly rates starting at C$6.50
• Flexible packages up to C$65.50

These features bring a connected and enjoyable flight experience. With such quality and variety, Air Canada stands out as a top airline.

Onboard Dining: Food and Beverages

Savor an exceptional dining experience on Air Canada flights with an array of delectable options. Enjoy:

Complimentary Beer & Wine: Economy passengers on select routes get free beverages.

• Beers include Hop Valley, Creemore Springs Premium Lager, Coors Light, and Molson Canadian
• Two premium French wine selections from Paul Mas

Affordable Extras: Spirits and cocktails available at just $5 each

Passengers can book prepared meals on long-haul journeys.

So, are you ready to book a flight for your next adventure? Air Canada and our detailed guide above will simplify every aspect of traveling for you.