Air Canada Seat Selection Policy

When we talk about Air Canada’s seat selection policy that typically outlines the options and fees associated with choosing a seat before departure, depending on the fare type, route, and passenger status. Whether you’re flying domestically, to the U.S., or internationally, the airline provides various seat selection preferences from standard seating to preferred seats with extra legroom. While some passengers are eligible for complimentary seat selection, others may need to pay an additional fee, especially when traveling on Basic or Standard fares.

With an extensive network of domestic and international routes, Air Canada Seat Selection service provides prospective flyers with hassle-free flight experience and cost-effective airfares.

However, the airline understands the flyer’s perspective that comfort is the key part of air travel and offers flexibility with seat selection.

For prospective Air Canada passengers who wish to select the preferred seat in advance, you can do so by understanding the Air Canada seat selection policy, fee & process to select seat.

Air Canada Seat Selection Policy

Before proceed to select seat on Air Canada go through following Air Canada seat selection policy below:

• Under the Air Canada seat selection policy, the airline allows you to make a seat selection within 24 hours before your scheduled flight’s departure time.

• Air Canada will automatically assign you a free seat when you check in online or at the airport. However, the airline also allows flyers to select the seat ahead of time, but to do so, you have to spring some extra cash.

• Air Canada elite members and passengers flying on a Latitude or comfort fare can select and upgrade their seats free of cost.

• An infant and kids (0 to 11 years of age) must be seated in an approved child safety seat, such as a car seat or booster seat, free of charge.

What are the Best Seats on Air Canada?

Air Canada features three types of cabin configuration: Economy Class, Premium Economy Class, and Air Canada Signature Class/ Business Class.

While flying with Air Canada, you’ll get a diverse choice of seating at Air Canada in a flash, even though you can reserve your tickets online or offline. The carrier offers passengers the opportunity to select seats that best suit their budget and comfort level.

To get deep insights into Air Canada cabins, check out the below key pointers.

Economy Seats

• If you’re flying within a confined budget, Air Canada economy seats will be the perfect option that fits your budget and comfort level.

• The airline designed economy cabins to give its precious flyers a hassle-free and convenient flying experience.

• For added convenience, each seat has its own personal power outlet for charging devices, adjustable headrests, and lumbar support.

• The flyers can also relish the complimentary food & beverages and access to in-flight entertainment.

• Further, Air Canada Economy class passengers can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item.

Premium Economy Seats

• Flying in an Air Canada premium economy class like you’re in first class but without the hefty price tag. However, the seats in premium economy are fitted with top-notch amenities and exceptional features.

• It gives you plenty of space to stretch out with adjustable headrests and a footrest to make your flight even more comfortable.

• The flyers can entice their taste buds with complimentary food & beverages and access to in-flight entertainment.

• The airline’s seats are equipped with a personal touchscreen TV with internet connectivity and free movies.

• But the best thing about Air Canada’s Premium Economy seats is their generous baggage allowance. You can bring up to two checked bags at no extra cost, with a total weight of up to 23 kg.

Signature Class/Business Class Seats

• Flying in an Air Canada Signature Class/Business Class Seats is a truly luxurious and unforgettable experience.

• The airline Signature Class features extra-wide fully flat-bed seats about 203 cm long to provide maximum comfort.

• In addition, the Signature Class seats are equipped with a personal entertainment system that includes a large HD screen, noise-canceling headphones, and access to hundreds of movies, TV shows, and music.

• Signature Class passengers can indulge in a unique three-course fine dining experience with an à la carte menu and premium wines.

• When it comes to baggage allowance, Signature Class passengers are allowed to check in two bags, each weighing up to 32 kilograms. They can also bring one piece of carry-on luggage and one personal item.

How do I Select Seats on Air Canada?

If you wish to select a seat in advance on Air Canada, you can opt for either offline or online. Here are the steps to select a seat in advance mentioned below in key pointers:

• Launch the Air Canada official web portal on your device.
• Once the homepage appears on your screen, click on the “Book a Flight” tab.
• Enter the necessary details for your flight and click “Continue.”
• Select the flight that best suits your needs and click ‘Continue.’
• After selecting your flight, you will be taken to the “Flight Options” page.
• After that, select your desired seat type (Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class, etc.)
• Once you select your seat type, a seating chart will appear.
• Choose a seat you would like to reserve from the available seating map.
• Review the information and click “Continue” to complete the reservation.
• Select your payment method and tap “Confirm” to finish the reservation.

How do I Choose Air Canada Seats via Call?

• Dial 1 (888) 247-2262 Air Canada toll-free number, to contact a customer representative.
• After that, pay attention to the automated voice assistant and follow the instructions.
• To get in touch with a customer agent of Air Canada, choose the option.
• Once you click it, your IVR call is directly connected with a representative.
• Provide the representative flight details and the seat you would like to reserve.
• The representative will make the process in the blink of an eye.

Air Canada Seat Selection Domestic/International Fares Details

Do you wish to choose comfort over expense and want the aisle window seat on Air Canada? Therefore, the airline offers passenger flexibility with a user-friendly seat selection policy. While flying with Air Canada, you can pick your seat in advance but must pay the Air Canada seat selection fee.

If you get further assistance in selecting your seat in advance, get in touch with a live person at Air Canada by calling the customer service line at 1 (888) 247-2262.

How do I Select a Seat on a Flight After Air Canada Booking?

If you completed your reservations but are not satisfied allotted seats. According to Air Canada’s seat selection policy, passengers select their preferred seat within 24 hours of booking. Follow the below steps to select a seat after booking.

• Login Air Canada Account and go to “My booking.”
• Then Enter the Booking Reference number, Email Id/ last name
• After that, Click the “Get Itinerary” button
• Click on the “Select/Change Seat” option from the “Modify” tab

How to Get Free Seat Selection on Air Canada?

Did you forget to choose the seat at the time of booking, and now wondering about the cost? No worries, some tips and tricks allow passengers to grab a free seat on Air Canada flights. For that, either be an elite member or book a Comfort or Latitude fare. Additionally, select a complimentary seat at check-in, online, on mobile, or at a kiosk. Here are a few additional tips:

Aeroplan Elite Status: (50K, 75K, and Super Elite)

• As an Aeroplan Elite status, the passengers are allowed to select a complimentary seat when traveling on a standard fare.
• Super elite members can also choose the Air Canada preferred seats.

Latitude Comfort Fares: Come with complimentary seat selection, and no additional charges are required.

Check in seat selection: Passengers can select a seat for free at check-in (online, mobile, or kiosk) if they haven’t pre-selected one. And, if you fail to do one, you can contact the airline directly for assistance.

Other Factors to Consider:

• Try to check in early
• If traveling with a companion, they can also get the benefits of “Air Canada Seat selection”.

What is the New Seat Policy for Air Canada?

Air Canada implemented a new policy for seat selection that started on January 21, 2025. It states that passengers with Basic Economy and with standard fares are no longer able to select a seat for free during check-in. However, if a traveler needs to change a fee will apply.

What Happens if I Don’t Select Seats in Air Canada?

During or after booking a flight, if a passenger forgets to choose a seat, the airline will randomly assign one at check-in. However, the changes are available during check in, but with limited options, and charges may apply. However, if the flight is oversold, passengers without a seat who check in last may not get the preferred seats. But those who purchased a seat will be prioritized.

How Early Can You Do Seat Selection?

If you forget to select the seat during check-in, try to choose one up to 24 hours before departure. However, with British Airways Executive Club status, or if you booked a fare bucket, allowed seat selection in advance.

Here are the general rules:

• For all fare types, select the fee for free 24 hours before the flight.
• Gold and silver members can also choose a complimentary seat 24 hours before departure.
• Exit row seats have additional restrictions, and may be available for free selection from 24 hours before scheduled flight.
• If you book a fare that doesn’t include free seat selection (like a Basic Economy fare), pay to choose a seat at the time of booking or a later date.

How Much is the Air Canada Seat Selection Fee?

Air Canada does charge a fee for seat selection, but it depends on the routes and seat type, whether traveling on a basic economy seat or the more flexible fares. Basic fare passengers may have to pay for seat selection, while those with Latitude or comfort fares can select a seat at no extra cost on some routes. Here is a breakdown of the “Air Canada seat selection charges.

Note: To find out the exact cost for your specific route and fare, check the website or use the Air Canada seat map during the booking process.

Does Air Canada Overbook Flights?

Yes, Air Canada sometimes overbooks flights on international itineraries to fill all the seats, in case passengers do not show up for a missed connection. And in this situation, the airline will ask the passengers to take the later flights, and offer compensation and future travel vouchers. However, if the airline does not find enough volunteers, it may deny boarding to some passengers and rebook them to alternate flights.

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