Air Canada’s new cabin baggage fee policy came into effect this Friday, January 3.
Since this date, travelers in the basic economy class fare option must pay to check their cabin baggage (roller suitcases, cylindrical sports bags, etc.), whereas this was previously permitted free of charge. (one per passenger).
The fee is now $35 for the first carry-on bag and $50 for the second. They are $65 for unchecked items that are intercepted at the boarding gate.
Please note that travelers can always bring a small personal item on board, such as a handbag or computer case.
North America flights and sun destinations
In a press release, Air Canada explained that the new rates apply to cross-border flights to or from the United States and those to or from the Caribbean, including Mexico.
Change of paid seat on January 21
Air Canada also announced that as of January 21, economy class customers will have to pay if they wish to change the seat assigned to them automatically and free of charge when purchasing tickets.
“Air Canada is committed to allocating adjacent seats to families and individuals requiring a companion, in accordance with its current policy, which also gives priority to the allocation of adjacent seats for companions traveling together,” the airline said. in a press release.
The exceptions
The announced changes apply to all base economy fare passengers, except those with Aeroplan or Star Alliance Gold status or Aeroplan Premium Credit Card holders, who are still entitled to one piece of baggage. cabin free of charge.
Change to the economical comfort option
Another change: also since January 3, Air Canada allows customers of the economy comfort option to have two checked bags free of charge instead of one, for a “destination anywhere in the world”.
“Align with competitors”
Air Canada explained that it was changing its fares to “align with those of its competitors,” who already charge similar fees for basic fare classes.
“Most of our competitors have a price of this order, so we are aligning ourselves to be able to face the competition with comparable prices,” an Air Canada spokesperson told the Journal de Québec this Friday.
According to IATA, in 2025, “ancillary” services, including cabin baggage fees, will generate approximately $145 billion in revenue globally for airlines.
For more information on baggage allowance as well as Air Canada fare products and their attributes, please consult the following pages:
