Booking a flight is just the start of your travel experience. Once you have secured your tickets, the next step is to choose your seat. With Air Canada, the process of seat selection can be a bit confusing, especially when it comes to fees and policies. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Air Canada’s seat selection process, including how to choose your preferred seat, the fees associated with seat selection, and what to expect if you don’t select a seat in advance.
Air Canada Seat Selection Policy
Air Canada’s seat selection policy can vary depending on your travel class and the specific flight you are booking. Generally, the airline allows passengers to select their seats in advance for a fee, with some exceptions for certain fare classes and elite status holders.
Air Canada Advance Seat Selection Fee
The Air Canada seat selection fee for most economy class tickets ranges from $10 to $50 CAD per passenger, per flight segment. The exact fee depends on various factors, such as the length of the flight, the seat location (e.g., exit row, bulkhead), and whether you are selecting a “Preferred Seat.”
How to Select Seat on Air Canada Flight
There are several ways to select your seat on an Air Canada flight, depending on when you’re making the selection and your specific travel situation.
GO ONLINE
If you’ve already booked your flight, you can go to the Air Canada website or mobile app to select your seat. Simply log in to your account, find your booking, and choose your preferred seat from the available options.
REQUEST A REFUND
If you’re not satisfied with your seat selection or have changed your mind, you can request a refund of the seat selection fee. However, refunds are subject to certain conditions and may not be available in all cases.
CALL US
If you prefer a more personal touch, you can call Air Canada’s reservation line to select your seat. A customer service representative can assist you in finding the best available seat for your needs.
What does a preferred seat mean on Air Canada?
Air Canada offers a variety of seating options, including “Preferred Seats,” which are seats that offer additional legroom, early boarding, and other perks. These seats typically come with an additional fee.
What is the difference between preferred seating and premium economy on Air Canada?
While both preferred seating and premium economy offer additional space and amenities, there are some key differences:
- Preferred seating is an upgraded option within the economy class cabin, while premium economy is its own separate cabin class.
- Premium economy seats offer significantly more legroom and recline compared to preferred seats in economy.
- Premium economy typically includes additional amenities, such as a dedicated check-in area, priority boarding, and enhanced meal and beverage service.
What precisely does Air Canada’s “seat selection” entail?
Air Canada’s “Seat Selection” refers to the process of choosing your specific seat on a flight. This can include selecting your preferred seat location (e.g., aisle, window, or middle seat), as well as choosing additional amenities like extra legroom or exit row seats (for an additional fee).
Things You Need To Know Before the Seat Selection Process
- Seat availability can vary depending on the specific flight and when you’re making your selection.
- Some seats, like bulkhead and exit row seats, may have additional requirements or restrictions (e.g., age, mobility, etc.).
- Seat selection fees are non-refundable, except in certain circumstances.
- If you don’t select a seat in advance, Air Canada will assign you a seat at check-in or at the gate.
Procedures for selecting seats according to the Air Canada Policy
Air Canada’s seat selection policies and procedures can vary depending on your specific travel situation. Here’s a general overview of the process:
How Do I Choose My Seat When I Make an Advance Reservation?
When you book your Air Canada flight, you’ll typically have the option to select your seat during the reservation process. Simply navigate to the seat selection page and choose your preferred seat from the available options.
There are different ways to reserve a seat on Air Canada while making a reservation:
- Visit the Air Canada website or use the mobile app to book your flight.
- Select your preferred seat during the booking process.
- Pay the applicable seat selection fee (if any).
- Your seat will be reserved and confirmed.
If you have already booked the flight:
- Log in to your Air Canada account.
- Find your booking and navigate to the seat selection page.
- Choose your preferred seat and pay the applicable fee (if any).
- Your seat selection will be confirmed.
Where can I get information about checking in for my next Air Canada (AC) flight?
You can find all the necessary information about checking in for your upcoming Air Canada flight on their website or mobile app. Simply log in to your account, find your booking, and follow the check-in instructions provided.
Air Canada Checking in online (Web check-in)
Air Canada offers online web check-in for most flights, which allows you to check in for your flight and print your boarding pass from the comfort of your own home or office.
Mobile Check-in
In addition to web check-in, Air Canada also offers mobile check-in through their app. This allows you to check in for your flight and access your mobile boarding pass directly on your smartphone or tablet.
Can I check in online for an Air Canada flight?
Yes, Air Canada offers online check-in for most flights. You can typically begin the check-in process 24 hours before your scheduled departure time.
Can I check bags using Air Canada’s online web check-in?
Yes, if you’re traveling with checked baggage, you can typically check your bags and print your baggage tags using Air Canada’s online web check-in process. However, you’ll still need to drop off your bags at the airport baggage counter.
Can I use a mobile device to check in with Air Canada?
Yes, Air Canada offers mobile check-in through their app. This allows you to check in for your flight and access your mobile boarding pass directly on your smartphone or tablet.
Can I pay for my checked luggage using Air Canada web check-in?
Yes, if you need to pay for checked baggage, you can typically do so during the online web check-in process. Simply follow the prompts to pay for your bags using a credit card.
Can I choose or change my seat utilizing Air Canada’s online web check-in process?
Yes, you can typically select or change your seat during the online web check-in process. However, availability may be limited, and additional fees may apply.
How can I change seats on a flight with Air Canada?
If you need to change your seat after you’ve completed the check-in process, you can typically do so by contacting Air Canada directly or speaking with a customer service agent at the airport.
How Can I Get in Touch With Air Canada About a Refund Request?
If you need to request a refund for a seat selection fee or other purchase, you can contact Air Canada in several ways:
A system for online refund processing
Air Canada offers an online refund request system, which can be accessed through their website or mobile app. Simply log in to your account, find your booking, and follow the instructions to submit a refund request.
Online Refund
- Visit the Air Canada website or use the mobile app.
- Log in to your account and find your booking.
- Navigate to the “Refund Request” page.
- Follow the prompts to submit your refund request.
- Provide any necessary documentation or information.
- Air Canada will review your request and process any eligible refunds.
Air Canada Customer Service
If you prefer to speak with a customer service representative directly, you can call Air Canada’s customer service line or visit an Air Canada ticket counter at the airport.
Air Canada’s customer service representatives can assist you with submitting a refund request, providing any necessary documentation, and answering any questions you may have about the refund process.
Can I choose my seats on Air Canada?
Yes, Air Canada allows passengers to select their seats in advance for most flights. However, seat selection may be subject to availability and additional fees.
Does Air Canada charge for seat selection?
Air Canada typically charges a fee for seat selection, especially for preferred seats with additional legroom or other perks. However, the specific fees and policies can vary depending on your travel class, fare type, and elite status.
How do I choose my seat after booking?
If you didn’t select your seat during the initial booking process, you can still choose your seat later on. Here’s how:
- Log in to your Air Canada account.
- Find your booking and navigate to the seat selection page.
- Choose your preferred seat and pay any
- Your seat selection will be confirmed.
Is seat selection free with Aeroplan?
Seat selection is not always free for Aeroplan members. While some elite status tiers may receive complimentary seat selection or discounted fees, most Aeroplan members will still need to pay the applicable seat selection fees when booking flights with Air Canada.
What happens if you don’t do seat selection with Air Canada?
If you don’t select a seat in advance with Air Canada, the airline will assign you a seat at check-in or at the gate. This may result in less desirable seating, such as middle seats or seats that are not together with your travel companions.
Is Air Canada preferred seating worth it?
Whether Air Canada’s Preferred seating is worth the additional cost is a personal decision that depends on your specific travel needs and preferences. Preferred seats offer additional legroom and other perks, which can make for a more comfortable flight experience. However, the fees can add up, especially for longer flights or multiple segments.
Which flights allow passengers to choose a Preferred Seat?
Preferred Seats are typically available on most Air Canada flights, including domestic and international routes. However, availability can vary depending on the specific flight and timing of your seat selection.
Can I make a cost-free reservation in advance for the desired seat?
Unfortunately, Air Canada does not offer complimentary advance seat selection for most passengers. While some elite status tiers or premium cabin classes may receive free or discounted seat selection, most economy class passengers will need to pay the applicable fees to reserve their preferred seat in advance.
What are some of the Air Canada seats that get the best ratings?
Some of the best-rated seats on Air Canada flights include:
- Exit row seats, which offer additional legroom.
- Bulkhead seats, which provide more space for stretching out.
- Aisle seats, which allow for easy access to the aisle.
Is there a time limit on when I can choose a seat without paying an extra fee?
There is no specific time limit for selecting a seat without paying a fee on Air Canada flights. However, seat availability can become limited as the departure date approaches, so it’s generally best to choose your seat as early as possible to secure your preferred option.
What will occur if you don’t select a seat ahead of time?
If you don’t select a seat in advance on your Air Canada flight, the airline will assign you a seat at check-in or at the gate. This means you may not get your preferred seat location, and you could potentially be separated from your travel companions.
How can I make sure my young child and I are seated together?
To ensure you’re seated with your young child on an Air Canada flight, it’s best to select your seats together as early as possible during the booking process or by contacting the airline directly. Air Canada does offer a child-seating policy to help facilitate seating families together, but availability may be limited if you don’t make arrangements in advance.
Conclusion
Navigating the Air Canada seat selection process can be a bit overwhelming, but understanding the policies, fees, and procedures can help ensure a smoother travel experience. Remember to choose your seats as early as possible to secure your preferred options and consider the benefits of upgrading to Preferred Seats or Premium Economy for additional comfort and amenities. If you have any specific concerns or needs, don’t hesitate to contact Air Canada’s customer service team for personalized assistance.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Air Canada’s seat selection process:
Q: Can I select seats for free if I have elite status with Air Canada? A: Certain elite status tiers with Air Canada may receive complimentary or discounted seat selection. However, the specific benefits can vary based on your status level and the type of fare you’ve purchased.
Q: What happens if I need to change my seat selection after completing check-in?
A: You can typically still change your seat assignment after check-in by contacting Air Canada directly or speaking with a gate agent at the airport. However, availability may be limited, and additional fees could apply.
Q: Are there any restrictions on who can select exit row seats? A: Yes, there are specific requirements for selecting exit row seats on Air Canada flights. Generally, passengers must be at least 16 years old and physically capable of assisting in an emergency evacuation.
Q: Can I select bassinet seats for an infant on an Air Canada flight? A: Yes, Air Canada offers bassinet seats for infants on select flights. These seats must be requested in advance and are subject to availability.
Q: How can I ensure I’m seated with my travel companions? A: To be seated together, it’s best to select your seats as a group during the initial booking process or by contacting Air Canada directly. You can also request to be seated together at check-in, but availability may be limited.
Remember, Air Canada’s policies and fees can change over time, so it’s always a good idea to check their website or contact customer service for the most up-to-date information regarding seat selection on your specific flight.