Air Canada, the country’s largest airline and a founding member of the Star Alliance, is a go-to choice for travelers heading to destinations across Canada, the U.S., and around the world. Whether you’re flying for business, visiting family, or heading on vacation, knowing what to expect before your journey can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about flying with Air Canada — from baggage rules and check-in procedures to in-flight services and travel tips.
About Air Canada
Founded in 1937, Air Canada has grown into a global airline with a modern fleet of more than 200 aircraft. Headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, the airline operates major hubs in Toronto (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), and Montreal (YUL), connecting passengers to over 220 destinations on six continents.
As a member of the Star Alliance, Air Canada offers seamless travel and loyalty benefits with partner airlines like United Airlines, Lufthansa, and Singapore Airlines.
Booking with Air Canada
Booking a flight with Air Canada is simple and user-friendly. You can reserve your ticket via:
- The official Air Canada website
- The Air Canada mobile app
- Travel agencies or third-party booking platforms
You’ll be able to choose from multiple fare classes:
- Economy Class: Budget-friendly with essential amenities
- Premium Economy: Extra legroom, upgraded meals, and priority boarding
- Signature Class (Business): Lie-flat seats, lounge access, and gourmet meals
Air Canada also offers vacation packages that include flights, hotels, and car rentals, helping travelers save with bundled deals.
Baggage Policy
Understanding Air Canada’s baggage rules can help you avoid unexpected fees.
✔ Carry-On:
- 1 Standard Item (e.g., small suitcase): Max 55 x 23 x 40 cm
- 1 Personal Item (e.g., purse or laptop): Max 33 x 16 x 43 cm
✔ Checked Baggage:
- Fees vary by route and fare class
- Weight limit: Usually 23 kg (50 lbs) per bag
- Oversized or overweight bags incur additional fees
Tip: Always check the Air Canada baggage policy 2025 on their website before packing.
Check-In and Boarding Process
Air Canada offers several convenient check-in options:
- Online check-in: Starts 24 hours before departure
- Mobile check-in: Via the Air Canada app
- Airport kiosks: Available at most major airports
Boarding is done in zones, with priority boarding available for Premium Economy, Signature Class, Aeroplan Elite members, and families with children.
In-Flight Experience
Depending on your route and fare class, the in-flight experience can vary — but Air Canada consistently offers modern amenities.
- Entertainment: Personal screens with movies, TV shows, music, and games
- Wi-Fi: Available on most aircraft (paid service)
- Meals: Free meals on long-haul flights; snacks available for purchase on shorter flights
- Comfort: Signature Class offers lie-flat pods; Premium Economy has wider seats and extra legroom
Aeroplan Loyalty Program
Air Canada’s Aeroplan program rewards frequent flyers with points that can be redeemed for:
- Free flights and seat upgrades
- Hotel stays and car rentals
- Merchandise and travel experiences
You can earn points by flying Air Canada and its Star Alliance partners, or by using an Aeroplan credit card.
Elite members enjoy perks like:
- Lounge access
- Free checked bags
- Priority check-in and boarding
COVID-19 and Travel Safety Updates
Air Canada continues to implement robust health and safety measures including:
- Enhanced aircraft cleaning
- Contactless check-in and boarding
- Flexible booking changes or cancellations
Be sure to check the Travel Ready Hub on their site for the latest updates, especially for international flights.
Popular Air Canada Destinations
flies to major cities across the globe. Popular routes include:
- Domestic: Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary
- U.S.: New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago
- Europe: London, Paris, Frankfurt, Rome
- Asia-Pacific: Tokyo, Hong Kong, Delhi, Sydney
Seasonal routes and new destinations are added frequently — so check their site for 2025 updates!
Tips for First-Time Flyers with Air Canada
- Choose your seat early to avoid last-minute surprises
- Download the mobile app for easy boarding and flight updates
- Arrive early: 90 minutes for domestic and 3 hours for international
- Have all your documents ready: Passport, visa, proof of vaccination if required
Conclusion
Air Canada offers a reliable and comfortable flying experience, whether you’re traveling across Canada or around the world. By understanding their policies and services ahead of time, you can enjoy a smoother, stress-free journey.
Ready to book your next trip? Explore flight options and special offers on aircanada.com.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
✅ Is Air Canada a good airline?
Yes, Air Canada is consistently ranked among the top North American airlines for safety, service, and international connectivity.
✅ How strict is with carry-on size?
Air Canada adheres closely to its carry-on policy, especially on full flights. It’s best to measure your bags before heading to the airport.
✅ Does offer free Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is available on many flights but is a paid service. Prices vary by flight duration.
✅ How do I contact customer service?
You can reach them via phone, the website chat feature, or the mobile app.
