How to Choose Your Seat on Air Canada

Choosing the right seat on your flight can make a huge difference—especially on long-haul or international routes. Air Canada offers various seating options, fare-based policies, and extra perks depending on your loyalty status. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Air Canada seat selection, so you can fly in comfort and confidence.

✈️ When and How Can You Select a Seat?

Air Canada allows seat selection at three key stages:

1. During Booking

When you book a flight online or via the mobile app, you’ll be shown an interactive seat map. This is your best opportunity to pick from a wide range of available seats.

2. After Booking

Missed your seat choice at the time of booking? No worries. You can select or change seats later by:

Logging into “My Bookings” on aircanada.com
Using the Air Canada mobile app
Calling Air Canada customer service

3. During Check-In

Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure. You can select from remaining available seats at this point, though premium and preferred seating may have limited availability.

💺 Seat Types on Air Canada Flights

✅ Standard Seats

Regular seats throughout the economy cabin. These may be complimentary depending on your fare type.

🌟 Preferred Seats

Located in front rows or exit rows, offering:

Extra legroom
Faster deplaning
Quieter cabin environment

🧍‍♂️ Extra Legroom Seats

Often part of preferred seating but may also be in premium sections. Ideal for taller travelers or those seeking more space.

💰 Air Canada Seat Selection Fees

Fees vary by route, seat type, and fare class. Here’s a general breakdown:

Seat Type	Domestic (CAD)	International (CAD)
Standard Seat	$10 – $50	$20 – $100
Preferred Seat	$25 – $75	$30 – $150
Extra Legroom Seat	$30 – $90	$40 – $150

Tip: Prices can fluctuate based on availability and season. Booking early can help secure better seats for less.

🎫 Fare Classes & Their Seat Selection Rules

Your seat selection rights and fees are based on your purchased fare class:

Fare Class	Standard Seat	Preferred Seat
Basic Economy	Paid only	Paid only
Standard Economy	Some Free	Paid
Flex	Free	Discounted
Comfort	Free	Discounted or Free
Latitude	Free	Free
Premium Economy	Free	Free
Business Class	Free	Premium seats included

🌍 International Flights: Seat Selection Differences

For international routes, seat selection is often more expensive and sometimes restricted based on fare:

Free seat selection may be available for Flex fares or higher
Preferred seats tend to cost more than on domestic routes
Business and Premium Economy passengers enjoy complimentary selections

🛫 Air Canada Aeroplan Elite Perks

Aeroplan Elite members benefit from exclusive seating options:

Free or discounted preferred seating
Early seat access
Waived seat selection fees on many fares

Elite Status Levels:

Aeroplan 25K
Aeroplan 35K
Aeroplan 50K
Aeroplan 75K
Aeroplan Super Elite

📋 Step-by-Step Guide: Selecting Your Seat

✅ During Booking

Select your flight and input passenger details
Choose a seat from the interactive map
Confirm and pay (if applicable)

✅ After Booking

Visit “My Bookings” on aircanada.com
Retrieve your reservation
Modify or upgrade seat selection

✅ At Check-In

Open the Air Canada app or website
Begin check-in 24 hours before flight
Pick from available seats
Finalize and get your boarding pass

👨‍👩‍👧 Tips for Choosing the Best Seat

Families: Book early to sit together. Choose middle-back rows for extra space.
Business Travelers: Choose aisle seats near the front for faster exit.
Tall Travelers: Go for exit rows or preferred seats.
Window Lovers: Great for sleeping on long-haul flights.

🔁 Changing Your Seat After Booking

Yes, you can modify your seat selection up to check-in. However:

Upgrades may require an additional payment
Downgrades are typically non-refundable
Changes are subject to seat availability

📜 Air Canada Seat Selection Policy

Seat selection is optional, but recommended
All selection fees are non-refundable, unless Air Canada moves your seat
Special accommodations (e.g., for medical/disability) are free
As of Jan 2025, Basic Economy passengers will be charged fees for modifying assigned seats

🎟️ Promo Codes and Discounts

Occasionally, Air Canada releases seat selection promo codes. These may be found via:

Email newsletters
Aeroplan offers
Travel partner promotions

🧳 Conclusion

Choosing your seat on Air Canada is an important part of ensuring a comfortable flight experience, especially when you have specific preferences for legroom, location, or additional amenities. Whether you’re flying internationally or domestically, Air Canada offers a range of seat options to suit your needs, from standard seats to preferred and extra-legroom selections.

Remember, while selecting a seat may come with additional fees depending on your fare class, you can also explore opportunities for free seat selection through higher fare classes or loyalty programs like Aeroplan. Planning ahead and understanding the seat selection process can make a big difference in your overall travel experience.

For more travel tips, assistance with booking, or to get information about how to change a Delta flight date, or visit Aerolineatelefono. We provide comprehensive guides and support to make your airline experiences as smooth as possible.

Safe travels, and enjoy your flight with Air Canada!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much is seat selection on Air Canada?

Seat selection fees on Air Canada typically range from CAD $10 to $100 for standard seats and CAD $25 to $150 for preferred or extra legroom seats, depending on the route and fare class.

How much does Air Canada charge for seat selection on international flights?

For international flights, Air Canada charges approximately CAD $20 to $100 for standard seats and CAD $30 to $150 for preferred seats. Fees may vary by destination, aircraft type, and booking class.

How can I get free seat selection on Air Canada?

You may be eligible for free seat selection if you book a Flex fare or higher, hold Aeroplan Elite status, or travel in Premium Economy or Business Class. Additionally, some promotions may offer free seat selection during booking.

Why does Air Canada charge for seat selection?

Air Canada charges for seat selection to allow passengers more control over their in-flight experience and to generate ancillary revenue. Premium seats with extra legroom or better location are priced for added value and comfort.

When can I book my seat on an Air Canada flight?

You can book your seat at three points: during initial booking, after booking via ‘My Bookings’, or during online check-in starting 24 hours before departure.

What happens if I don’t select a seat on Air Canada?

If you skip seat selection, Air Canada will automatically assign you a seat at check-in—this may be a middle seat or away from your travel group. In Basic Economy, you cannot choose your seat without paying a fee.

What is a preferred seat on Air Canada?

Preferred seats are typically located in exit rows or front cabin sections, offering more legroom and faster boarding/deplaning. These seats are available for an extra fee or free to eligible Aeroplan members.

How do I select seats in advance on Air Canada?

You can select your seat in advance during booking or later through the “Manage My Booking” section on Air Canada’s website or mobile app. Some seats may incur additional fees depending on your fare class.

Are Air Canada seat selection fees refundable?

No, Air Canada seat selection fees are generally non-refundable, unless the airline changes your seat due to operational or aircraft changes.

Can I change my seat after booking on Air Canada?

Yes, you can change your seat after booking through the website or app. However, changes are subject to seat availability and may incur additional charges if upgrading to a more expensive seat.