Air Canada’s decision to impose baggage fees on customers traveling at the lowest fare is “worrying” according to the federal Minister of Transport, who believes that Canadians do not deserve this.
• Also read: Air Canada will impose fees of at least $35 for baggage
“It’s worrying. Canadians work hard and save to travel. They deserve good service, not extra fees,” said Anita Anand, in a written statement to Journal.
Photo d’archives, AFP
The federal Minister of Transport was reacting to the adjustment of Air Canada’s base fares, which announced Wednesday that customers who book at the cheapest fare will now have to check in at a cost of at least $35 any baggage larger than ‘a “handbag or computer case” for flights in North America and sun destinations.
The fee will be $50 for the second bag, and $65 for baggage that has not been checked before boarding.
These new fees will come into effect on January 3.
Why intervene?
Please note that other airlines in Canada have similar policies regarding baggage check-in. This is the case, for example, of Westjet and Porter airlines.
In this context, why did Minister Anand choose to publicly criticize Air Canada for its decision?
“The minister has been in post in Transport since September. This is the first time she has seen a company add fees. If this had happened to any other airline since she took office, we would have reacted the same way,” her office explained.
“We want airlines to be more transparent about the fees they impose on passengers. We want Canadians to know where they are paying fees, and so that they do not have any surprises when they arrive at the airport,” we added.
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