What is the Fee to Change a Flight on Air Canada Airlines? ✈️💼
If you need to change your Air Canada flight, the change fee can vary depending on the type of ticket you purchased and the specific details of your booking. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect when you need to make changes to your flight:
1. Flight Change Fee Based on Fare Type
Air Canada’s flight change fees differ depending on the fare class and type of ticket:
- Basic Economy: Tickets purchased in the Basic Economy fare class are the least flexible. If you need to change your flight, you’ll typically be subject to a significant change fee. In some cases, changes may not be permitted, and if allowed, you might need to pay a fee plus any fare difference.
- Standard Economy: If you have a Standard Economy ticket, you can usually make changes, but you’ll be required to pay a change fee. Fees typically range from $50 to $200, depending on the route, ticket class, and fare conditions. You’ll also need to pay any difference in fare if the new flight is more expensive.
- Flex Fares: Flex fares offer more flexibility, often allowing changes with little to no additional fee. However, you might still need to pay a fare difference if your new flight costs more than the original booking.
- Premium Economy and Business Class: For Premium Economy or Business Class tickets, Air Canada offers more flexible change policies. While you may still face a change fee, it’s typically lower compared to Basic Economy tickets, and you may also be eligible to change your flight without paying a fee, depending on the circumstances.
2. Change Fee Waivers & Exceptions
Air Canada has specific cases where change fees can be waived, including:
- Within 24 hours of booking: If you booked your flight directly through Air Canada and your flight is at least 2 days away, you may be eligible to change your booking free of charge within 24 hours of purchase.
- Air Canada Flight Cancellations: If your flight is canceled by Air Canada, you will not be charged a change fee. You’ll also have the option of receiving a refund, rebooking on another flight, or receiving a travel credit.
- Special Circumstances: In cases such as medical emergencies, military deployment, or other extraordinary situations, you may be able to request a fee waiver or a more flexible change option. These situations are typically evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
3. How to Change Your Air Canada Flight
You can make changes to your flight with Air Canada in several ways:
- Online: Log in to your Air Canada account, find your booking, and follow the instructions to change your flight. If you booked through a third-party, like an online travel agency, you may need to contact them directly to make changes.
- Customer Service: You can also speak with an Air Canada representative at 1-866-756-4238 for assistance with changing your flight.
- Mobile App: Use the Air Canada mobile app to quickly access your booking and make changes.
- At the Airport: If you’re already at the airport, you can go to the Air Canada check-in counter for assistance with making changes to your flight.
4. What Additional Costs Might Apply?
- Fare Difference: If the new flight you want to book has a higher fare, you will need to pay the difference between the original ticket price and the new fare.
- Change Fees: Depending on your ticket class, you may need to pay a change fee in addition to the fare difference.
- Taxes and Fees: Additional taxes and fees may also apply when changing your flight.
5. How Much is the Change Fee?
- Basic Economy: Change fees could range from $75 to $200 depending on your route and circumstances, but in some cases, changes might not be allowed at all.
- Standard and Flex Fares: Change fees typically range between $50 and $150, depending on your ticket conditions and how far in advance you make the change.
- Premium Economy and Business Class: Change fees tend to be lower or waived for higher fare classes, but you may still need to pay a fare difference.
6. Special Waivers for COVID-19 and Other Emergencies
Due to unforeseen circumstances, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Air Canada has at times waived change fees for specific types of bookings. Always check the Air Canada website for the most up-to-date information on special waivers or exceptions related to your flight.
Summary of Air Canada Flight Change Fees:
- Basic Economy: Likely non-refundable; high change fees may apply.
- Standard Economy: Change fees range from $50 to $200 + fare difference.
- Flex Fares: Minimal change fees, but fare difference may apply.
- Premium Economy & Business Class: Lower fees or no change fees; fare difference may apply.
For more flexibility when booking, you can consider upgrading to a Flex fare or a higher class of service. This can save you money in the long run if you need to change your flight.
📞 Need assistance? Call 1-866-756-4238 to speak with a representative and get help with your flight change.