In a somewhat unpopular decision, Air Canada will soon no longer offer certain features to economy customers for free. While these perks will still be available to economy class, passengers will need to pay for them.
The changes will go into effect next month. Air Canada claims that these new fees will put the company in a better position to compete with other airlines.
The Almighty (Canadian) Dollar
According to credible sources, Air Canada will no longer offer certain perks for free to economy class customers and will begin to impose fees on them. These perks include carry-on bags and seat selection.
Beginning 3 January, 2025, economy passengers will have to pay CAD$35 to bring a carry-on bag on board and CAD$85 to bring two. These fees will go in effect for domestic and international flights to the United States and the Caribbeans.
One personal item will continue to be free per passenger. Personal items include handbags and laptop bags. Medical devices, mobility aids, wheelchairs, and strollers can also be brought on board without a fee.
CBC News spoke with several travelers at Toronto Pearson International Airport about the luggage changes. Some travelers criticizes the change, arguing that the fees will make flights less affordable for travelers. Others are indifferent on the fee and argue that the overall ticket price matters more to them than one fee.
Canada’s Transport Minister Anita Anand posted the following to X in reaction to the new fees:
“I am extremely concerned. Canadians work hard and save up to travel. They rightly expect excellent service, not extra fees.“
As for seat selection, it will no longer be free starting 21 January. When passengers book online, seats will be assigned to them at random, and seat selection will cost extra. At this time, the upcoming fee for seat selection is unknown.
Earlier in the year, Air Canada started to impose seat selection fees, but suspended it after just two days due to criticisms from consumers.
Air Canada’s Strategic Shifts
Sources state that Air Canada is axing these free perks to align with policies from competitor airlines. Canadian airlines have also been dependent on ancillary fees for perks and amenities that were once part of bundled tickets. These perks include Wi-Fi and on-board snacks.
An Air Canada spokesperson claims the changes are to ‘better distinguish its fare brands’. The airline perhaps felt its economy class was a little bit too ritzy with free carry-on bags and seat selections. This likely discouraged travelers from checking out its other fare options.
Starting 3 January, Air Canada will offer two free carry-on bags per passenger on its ‘Comfort Economy’ class. This class is right in the middle of its seven tiers.
