Air Canada is introducing significant changes to its baggage policies for travelers in 2025, notably impacting those who book economy basic fares. Beginning January 3, 2025, passengers flying on economy basic fares to specific destinations—including domestic flights and routes to the U.S., Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean—will no longer be permitted to bring carry-on luggage. Only a personal item will be allowed. However, travelers on basic fares who are connecting to international destinations may still bring a carry-on. Additionally, Aeroplan Elite Status and Star Alliance Gold members will continue to enjoy the allowance of a carry-on and complimentary checked baggage, while holders of Aeroplan Premium credit cards will benefit from various upgrades, including free checked luggage.
According to Barry Choi, a personal finance and travel expert, these changes reflect broader trends across the airline industry, evidenced by similar adjustments made by WestJet and Porter Airlines. Choi suggests that this move allows for a clearer comparison between airlines, enhancing transparency for consumers. The tightening of carry-on regulations addresses ongoing issues related to carry-on baggage proliferation, particularly during peak travel seasons when passengers tend to bring multiple bags and large winter jackets, which complicates boarding and overall logistics.
Moreover, Air Canada is revising its baggage policy for those opting for the economy comfort fare. Starting January 3, 2025, passengers purchasing this ticket class, which is three levels above the basic fare, will be allowed to check two bags for free, an increase from the current allowance of one. This is indicative of the airline’s strategy to differentiate its fare classes and incentivize customers to purchase higher-tier tickets, while also potentially increasing revenue from those who opt for the new luggage restrictions on basic fares.
In terms of seating policies, starting January 21, 2025, passengers on basic economy fares will see modifications regarding seat assignments. While complimentary seat assignments at check-in will remain intact for those who do not pre-book, any changes to those assigned seats after check-in will incur a fee. Choi notes that these adjustments are likely aimed at enhancing Air Canada’s profit margins as families or larger groups will face additional costs if they wish to check extra bags, thus significantly impacting their total travel expenses.
Despite these changes, Air Canada reassures passengers that it remains committed to accommodating travelers who require assistance and ensuring families can sit together. This commitment aligns with its existing policy that prioritizes placing companions traveling together in close proximity, an important consideration for many families and individuals with specific needs.
The adjustments being made by Air Canada reflect a broader trend in the airline industry toward stricter baggage and seating policies. While individual travelers may not find these modifications overly burdensome, families may feel a financial strain, potentially adding significant costs to their travel budgets. As these changes take effect, travelers will need to reevaluate their packing strategies and budget for potential additional fees associated with checked baggage or seat changes, ultimately impacting the overall experience of flying with Air Canada in 2025 and beyond.
