Air Canada to drop carry-on bags for some basic fare flights next year
Global News
People hoping to grab a cheaper flight within Canada or to a sunny North American destination in January could have to adjust their plans.
Air Canada is making some changes for travellers in the new year, with the biggest change being no more carry-on baggage allowed for those travelling on a basic ticket to certain locations.
Any traveller who books an economy basic fare with Air Canada on or after Jan. 3, 2025, will no longer be able to bring anything but a personal item if travelling within Canada, to and from the U.S. — including Hawaii and Puerto Rico —` and to and from Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.
The change only applies to those travelling within these regions.
Air Canada notes economy basic passengers connecting onto an international destination will still be able to keep that carry-on with them.
As well, those who are Aeroplan Elite Status and Star Alliance Gold members will still be able to bring on board a carry-on and will still have free checked baggage as well. Those with an Aeroplan Premium credit card will also be able to access various benefits such as a free checked bag.
Barry Choi, personal finance and travel expert at the Money We Have, told Global News it’s not a surprise given changes to basic fares made by WestJet and Porter Airlines.
“I think it’s a way for Air Canada to allow consumers to have that apples to apples comparison,” he said. “So you can really see what you’re getting with each airline and then the consumer can decide.
“Carry-on has become a huge issue. Everyone’s bringing a carry-on, a personal item and in the winter a huge jacket, which takes up a lot of space and slows things down.”
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