Air Canada is revising some of the terms of its Basic and Comfort economy fare tickets. For its lowest-priced, Basic fare for North America and Sun routes, larger items, such as roller-board or duffel bags, or large backpacks, will have to be checked pre-security, and standard fees of $35 for a first bag and $50 for a second bag.
For its lowest-priced, Basic fare for North America and Sun routes, customers travelling on tickets purchased on or after January 3, 2025, will still be able to bring on board one small personal item, such as a purse or computer bag.
Customers arriving at the boarding gate with ineligible carry-on items will be required to check this baggage for a $65 fee for each item.
Mobility aids, medical devices, and child strollers are exempt from carry-on charges for all customers. As well, Status members, Star Alliance Gold, and Aeroplan premium credit cardholders will continue to be entitled to one carry-on bag. Other benefits will also continue to apply.
Air Canada Basic Fare Seating
The revised Basic fare will still include complimentary seat assignment at check-in for customers who have not paid a fee to select their seats in advance.
However, beginning January 21, 2025, customers travelling on the revised Basic fare who wish to change their seat from the one automatically generated at check-in will be required to pay for that change. The fee will be determined by the new seat chosen.
For families or those requiring an assistant, Air Canada says it is committed to seating these customers together as per its current policy. It also prioritizes seating travelling companions together. Status and credit card member benefits will also continue to apply.
Air Canada Comfort Fare Changes
The carrier also announced it is increasing the checked baggage allowance for customers travelling worldwide on its Comfort economy fare.
Under the new structure, Comfort fare customers who purchase their tickets from January 3, 2025, onwards will be entitled to check two complimentary bags. Currently, the fare permits only one checked bag.
For more information, see Air Canada baggage for details on allowances.