When you book a flight with Air Canada, you often get the option to choose your seat. But sometimes, this comes with a cost. Many travelers ask, “Can I get a seat for free on Air Canada?” The answer is yes, in some cases. This article will explain how you can get a free seat selection and save money while flying comfortably.
Let’s break it down step by step.
What Is Seat Selection?
Seat selection means you can choose where you want to sit on the plane. You can pick a window seat, an aisle seat, or even sit with your family or friends. Air Canada allows passengers to choose their seats during or after booking.
However, some types of tickets may include free seat selection, while others may not.
Does Air Canada Charge for Seats?
Yes, sometimes Air Canada charges extra if you want to pick your seat in advance. The seat selection fee depends on:
The type of fare you buy (ticket class)
The destination and route
The seat location (like front row or exit row)
Prices can range from CAD $10 to $100 or more per flight segment.
But don’t worry—there are still ways to avoid this fee and get your seat for free.
Ways to Get Free Seat Selection on Air Canada
Here are the best methods to get a free seat without paying extra:
1. Book a Higher Fare Class
Air Canada offers different fare types:
Basic (lowest fare) – No free seat selection
Standard – No free seat, but you can pay for one
Flex – Free standard seat selection
Comfort and Latitude – Free seat selection (including preferred seats)
If you choose Flex, Comfort, or Latitude, you can select your seat for free while booking.
Tip: Compare fare options before booking. Sometimes, paying a bit more for Flex may be cheaper than adding a seat fee to a Basic ticket.
2. Join the Aeroplan Loyalty Program
If you're a member of Air Canada's Aeroplan program, you might get free seat selection based on your membership level.
Here’s how it works:
Aeroplan Elite Status Members (Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Super Elite) often get free preferred seat selection.
The higher your status, the better your seat options.
Joining Aeroplan is free, and you earn points when you fly. These points help you reach elite levels faster and enjoy free perks like seat selection.
3. Wait Until Check-In (Free Option)
If you don’t want to pay for a seat in advance, you can wait until check-in to choose your seat for free.
Here’s what to do:
Online check-in starts 24 hours before your flight.
Go to the Air Canada website or app and check in.
You can often choose from the remaining available seats at no cost.
Note: Your choice may be limited, and you might not get your preferred seat (like a window or aisle). But this is a smart option if you're okay with any available seat.
4. Use Credit Card or Travel Benefits
Some travel credit cards offer perks like free seat selection when you book flights.
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards or includes Air Canada as a partner, check to see if it includes seat selection benefits.
Also, business travel programs or corporate travel bookings may include free seat selection for employees.
5. Travel with Children (Family Seating)
Air Canada tries to seat children under 14 near their parents or guardians for free, even if you did not pay for seat selection.
To get this:
Make sure all family members are booked under the same reservation.
Check in early to increase the chance of sitting together.
This rule follows the Canadian Transportation Agency’s guidelines for family seating.
Final Thoughts
Yes, you can get free seat selection on Air Canada if you follow the right steps:
Choose a Flex fare or higher
Join the Aeroplan loyalty program
Check in 24 hours before to pick a seat for free
Use credit card travel perks or business travel benefits
Travel with kids and let Air Canada seat you together
If you don’t mind waiting until check-in, or if you’re not picky about your seat location, you can avoid the extra fee. But if sitting in a certain spot is important to you, it may be worth upgrading your fare or joining Aeroplan for future benefits.
Always review the ticket details before booking so you know what’s included and what isn’t.
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