In the never-ending race to rock-bottom ticket prices, airlines make up the difference with fees, and some days it feels like we’re being fee-ed to death. Now Air Canada has added another one: $30 per passenger just to book over the phone. For a family of four, that’s $120 plus tax before anyone has even packed a suitcase.
Here’s what you need to know, and how the other Canadian airlines compare.
What’s changing at Air Canada
Who pays: anyone making a new booking by phone with an Air Canada agent, including Aeroplan reward bookings.
How much: CA$30 plus applicable taxes per passenger, not per booking. It’s non-refundable, even if you cancel later.
What’s free: booking on aircanada.com or in the Air Canada app.
Who’s exempt:
Customers who need specialized care and support, including those with accessibility needs.
Anyone calling for help because a flight they already booked was delayed, cancelled or otherwise disrupted.
Calling about an existing trip doesn’t trigger the booking fee. Your fare’s usual change or cancellation rules still apply.
Air Canada says the fee doesn’t apply to services you can’t complete online.
How the Canadian airlines compare
Fees are in Canadian dollars and can change at any time. Check the airline’s site before you book.
Tips to avoid the fee
Book online or in the app. It’s free at every airline, and you can pick seats and add bags while you’re there.
Ask a tech-savvy family member to help. Grandparents booking a visit can sit down with a grandchild instead of calling.
Ask about exemptions before you pay. If you have accessibility needs, or you’re calling about a disrupted flight, tell the agent at the start.
If the website glitches, note the error message and try another device before you call. Then ask whether the fee will be waived.
Travel agents are still a thing, and they can be a lifesaver! Many do charge a fee, but you get so much more than a booking. A trusted travel advisor will compare prices across airlines, bundle in hotels, car rentals and travel insurance, and find deals you might miss. They’re especially handy for big family trips or grandparents who’d rather not book online. And if a flight gets cancelled or changed, you have someone in your corner to sort it out. That’s a lot more value than a $30 phone call!
FAQ
Does Air Canada charge if I call to change an existing booking?
No booking fee applies, but your fare’s change rules still do.
Are seniors exempt?
Not automatically. The exemption covers customers who need specialized care and support, including accessibility needs.
Is the fee refundable?
No, not even if you cancel the trip.
Which Canadian airlines still let you book by phone for free?
Based on their published policies, Porter, Air Transat, Canadian North and Pacific Coastal.
Good to know: The WestJet Premium fare has no phone fee.
