Air Canada Eliminates Free Carry-On for Cheapest Fare Tickets

Air Canada has introduced new restrictions for its lowest-tier basic economy fares, marking a significant shift in the airline’s baggage policy. Starting January 3, 2025, passengers purchasing basic economy tickets for North American and sun destinations will no longer be allowed to bring a carry-on bag for free. Instead, they will be limited to one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, that fits under the seat in front of them.

Carry-on items, typically small roller bags or duffels stored in overhead bins, will now need to be checked in advance for basic economy travelers. This move follows similar changes made by WestJet earlier this year with its controversial “Ultrabasic” fare.

Passengers traveling with Air Canada who wish to bring additional luggage will need to pay $35 for their first checked bag and $50 for a second. Those who fail to check in their bags before security and arrive at the gate with an ineligible carry-on will face an elevated fee of $65.

In another change effective January 21, 2025, passengers on basic economy fares will no longer be able to change their automatically assigned seats during check-in without paying an additional fee. The cost for seat selection will vary based on the seat chosen, but Air Canada has yet to provide specifics on pricing or whether this policy applies across all routes.

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among travelers. Frequent flyer Emily Johnson expressed frustration, saying, *“It feels like airlines are finding more ways to nickel-and-dime us. Carry-ons have always been a staple of budget travel, and now that’s being taken away too.”*

On the other hand, budget-conscious traveler Raj Mehta sees potential benefits. *“If the base fares actually go down, this might work for people who travel light. But it’s unclear if they’ll really pass the savings on to passengers,”* he remarked.

Air Canada defended its decision, stating it aligns with fare structures already implemented by other Canadian airlines such as WestJet, Porter, Flair, and Sunwing. Notably, WestJet’s Ultrabasic ticket, introduced in summer 2024, also eliminated complimentary carry-ons and seat changes but was marketed as cheaper than its basic fare. It remains unclear whether Air Canada will similarly reduce prices for its revised basic economy tickets.

Some exemptions to the carry-on fee policy remain. Strollers, medical devices, and mobility aids are still permitted at no charge, regardless of fare type. Additionally, Aeroplan premium credit cardholders, Star Alliance Gold members, and Status passengers will continue to enjoy one complimentary carry-on bag.

Meanwhile, Air Canada is enhancing perks for its “comfort fare” tier. Beginning January 3, 2025, comfort fare travelers on international routes will be entitled to two complimentary checked bags instead of one.This policy overhaul reflects a growing trend among airlines to unbundle services, effectively offering lower base fares while charging for add-ons like baggage and seat selection. For budget-conscious travelers, these changes may offer cost-saving opportunities if they travel light. However, critics argue it represents a nickel-and-diming approach that diminishes the overall passenger experience.