Air Canada is introducing significant changes to its basic economy fare starting January 3, 2025, bringing it in line with many budget airlines. These updates will impact carry-on baggage allowances, seat selection, and more, sparking a mix of reactions from travelers. Here’s what you need to know.
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Key Changes to Air Canada’s Basic Economy Fare
- No Complimentary Carry-On Bags
Passengers purchasing the lowest-priced basic economy tickets for North American and sun-destination routes will no longer be allowed free carry-on luggage. Instead:- Allowed: One free personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, small enough to fit under the seat in front.
- Charge for Carry-Ons:
- First bag: $35
- Second bag: $50
- At-Gate Fees: Arriving at the gate with an unpermitted carry-on will cost $65 to check the item.
- Seat Selection Fee
Starting January 21, 2025, travelers with basic fares will no longer have the option to change their automatically assigned seat for free during check-in. Changing seats will incur a fee, which will vary based on the seat selected. - Additional Perks for Comfort Fare
To balance the loss of benefits for basic tickets, passengers purchasing comfort fare tickets for international travel will receive two free checked bags starting January 3, 2025.
Why Is Air Canada Making These Changes?
The airline states that the changes align its fare offerings with those of competitors like WestJet, which introduced its “UltraBasic” fare in 2023. According to Air Canada, the new rules also incentivize customers to consider upgraded memberships or fare options, such as Aeroplan premium credit cards or Star Alliance Gold status, which still allow one carry-on bag for free.
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Mixed Reactions from Travelers
Passengers at Toronto Pearson Airport expressed divided opinions:
- Criticism: Many travelers feel the changes are unfair, especially given the already high ticket costs. They argue that carry-on luggage should remain a standard inclusion.
- Support: Some welcome the changes, believing they may reduce inefficiencies, such as last-minute gate-checking of oversized carry-ons that delay flights.
Expert Opinions on the Policy Shift
- Support for Efficiency: Fred Lazar, an economics professor, views the policy as overdue. He notes that stricter baggage rules could streamline boarding and prevent delays caused by excess carry-ons.
- Consumer Protections: Some experts, like John Gradek from McGill University, suggest that regulators might need to oversee these changes more closely to protect consumer rights, as seen in Spain, where airlines were fined for charging extra fees for carry-on bags.
What This Means for Passengers
For travelers planning to fly Air Canada on basic economy fares, here are some tips:
- Pack Smart: Ensure your belongings fit into a personal item if you want to avoid additional costs.
- Plan Ahead: Pay for any necessary carry-on or checked baggage when booking to avoid higher fees at the gate.
- Consider Upgrades: If baggage and seat selection are essential to you, explore fare upgrades or loyalty programs.
While these changes aim to provide more streamlined and budget-friendly options for light travelers, they reflect a broader industry trend of unbundling services that were once included in ticket prices. Whether this marks a step forward in efficiency or a setback for passenger convenience will depend on individual travel habits and preferences.
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