By Air Canada will introduce an additional fee for carry-on bags for basic-economy travelers. The new policy applies to passengers traveling within the Americas and targets carry-on items larger than a small handbag or backpack.
Travelers opting for the budget fare will now face a $25 fee for the first piece of carry-on luggage, including roller bags and oversized backpacks. A second carry-on item will incur an additional charge of $36. If passengers fail to pay these fees when booking or checking in, they will face a $46 surcharge at the airport.
This new charge follows a trend among budget airlines that have started charging extra fees for carry-on baggage, with many carriers offering only one free personal item.
Air Canada stated that the policy aligns with similar fare structures of other Canadian carriers. However, it has faced heavy criticism from Canadian lawmakers and travelers. Federal Transport Minister Anita Anand voiced her displeasure, calling the new policy unacceptable and urging the airline to reconsider its approach.
In addition to the carry-on fees, Air Canada will also begin charging low-fare passengers for changing automatically assigned seats starting January 21, 2025. This follows a backlash earlier in the year when the airline attempted a similar policy change.
Key Points:
- Air Canada introduces fees for large carry-on bags on basic-economy fares.
- The new charges: $25 for the first carry-on, $36 for a second.
- Travelers face a $46 surcharge if fees are unpaid at the airport.
- The policy aligns with other Canadian carriers but faces backlash from lawmakers.
- Air Canada will also charge for seat changes starting January 21, 2025.
