Key Takeaways
- Basic fare travelers must check large carry-on bags for $35-$65 fees starting January 3, 2025
- Seat change fees apply to Basic fare passengers after check-in beginning January 21, 2025
- Comfort fare now includes two free checked bags worldwide, doubling previous allowance
Air Canada‘s Basic fare travelers will face new carry-on baggage restrictions starting January 3, 2025, marking a significant shift in the airline’s economy class offerings. The changes, announced today, will affect travelers on North American routes, including domestic Canadian flights and popular sun destinations.
Changes to Basic Fare Travel Experience
The revised Basic fare structure requires passengers to check any large carry-on items, such as roller bags, duffel bags, or large backpacks, for standard fees of $35 for the first bag and $50 for the second. Travelers will still be permitted to bring one small personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, into the cabin at no charge.
For those who arrive at the boarding gate with ineligible carry-on items, a $65 fee per item will apply for gate-checking baggage. The airline confirms that mobility aids, medical devices, and child strollers remain exempt from these charges.
Beginning January 21, 2025, Basic fare passengers who wish to change their complimentary seat assignment after check-in will incur additional fees based on their new seat selection. However, Air Canada maintains its commitment to seating families and those requiring assistance together at no additional charge.
Aeroplan Elite Status members, Star Alliance Gold members, and premium credit cardholders retain their current benefits, including the ability to bring one carry-on bag aboard. These exemptions apply across all North American routes.
The airline has also enhanced its Comfort fare offering for worldwide travel. Passengers purchasing Comfort fare tickets from January 3, 2025, will receive an increased baggage allowance of two complimentary checked bags, an upgrade from the current single-bag allowance.
These modifications align Air Canada’s fare structure with other Canadian carriers while creating clearer distinctions between fare categories. The changes primarily affect travel within Canada, to and from the United States, and to Mexico, Central America, and Caribbean destinations.
