Credit - Air Canada
Air Canada to Ban Carry-On Bags and Implement Seat Selection Fee for Lowest-Fare Passengers
Air Canada is set to ban carry-on bags for its lowest-fare passengers, introducing a new policy that takes effect on January 3, 2025. As part of a shift towards a budget carrier model, the airline will require customers purchasing the basic fare on North American flights and trips to sun destinations to check any larger items such as duffel bags, roller bags, or large backpacks for a fee.
However, passengers can still bring one small personal item on board for free, such as a purse, laptop bag, or items like strollers and mobility aids.
Along with the prohibition of carry-on bags, Air Canada is going to introduce a seat selection fee for its lowest-tier customers. The passengers will have to pay if they want to change the seat assigned to them at check-in policy that had been suspended after traveler backlash earlier this year.
The move is part of a larger trend for Air Canada to continue moving closer to a low-cost carrier model by ramping up ancillary fees for items long bundled in the base fare. Changes were implemented, according to the carrier, to more closely align the company’s fare structure with similar ticket options offered by other Canadian carriers, further distinguishing between its various fare brands.
The moves position Air Canada, the country‘s largest carrier, to offer more bespoke travel options for passengers, all while remaining competitive. Those who travel with Air Canada in the years ahead might see a very different product on offer. Check out Apple’s air tag sharing with airlines to track lost luggage.
