How to Change an Air Canada Flight: A Complete Guide

Travel plans can change unexpectedly, and if you’ve booked a flight with Air Canada, you might need to adjust your schedule. Fortunately, Air Canada provides several options for passengers to change their flight, depending on the ticket type, fare conditions, and the timing of the change. In this guide, we will walk you through how to Air Canada change flight and what to expect during the process.

Overview Of Air Canada Flight Change Policy

Air Canada offers flight changes to its customers, but with terms and conditions. Whether you can change a flight with the airline, and how much it might cost, greatly depends on what fare class you booked and how far in advance you want to make changes. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Types of Tickets and Flexibility
Air Canada offers various types of fares, including Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and First Class, with each having different rules regarding flight changes. The more flexible tickets, such as Flex or Premium Economy fares, allow for easier changes without hefty fees, while basic Economy fares typically have more restrictions.

2. Flight Change Fees
For most tickets, Air Canada charges a fee for making changes, which can range from $75 to $500 depending on the fare rules. These fees are higher for international flights or long-haul routes. However, if you book a flexible or premium fare, you might not face change fees, or the fees could be lower.

3. Air Canada’s COVID-19 Flexibility
Due to the pandemic, Air Canada introduced more lenient policies allowing passengers to change their flights without additional fees for certain periods. Although many of these temporary policies have been adjusted or lifted, you should check whether any exceptions apply to your booking if you’re traveling during uncertain times.

How to Change an Air Canada Flight

Changing your Air Canada flight can be done through several convenient channels, depending on your preference and situation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to changing your flight:

1. Via the Air Canada Website or Mobile App

The quickest and easiest way to change your Air Canada flight is through the airline’s official website or mobile app. Here’s how:

• Log In: Visit the Air Canada website or open the mobile app, then log in to your account. If you don’t have an account, you can still manage your booking using your confirmation number.

• Find Your Booking: Enter your booking reference or ticket number and last name to find your flight details.

• Select ‘Change Flight’: Once your reservation is retrieved, you’ll be given options to modify your flight. If your ticket allows changes, you’ll see a list of available flights you can switch to. Select the new flight based on your preferences.

• Review Fees and Availability: The system will show any applicable change fees and fare differences. Make sure to review them before finalizing the change.

• Complete the Payment: If there is a fare difference, you’ll need to pay it. Once the payment is processed, you will receive an updated e-ticket with your new flight details.

2. Via Air Canada Customer Service

If you prefer personal assistance or need help with a more complex change, you can contact Air Canada’s customer service. Here’s how:

• Call Air Canada: You can call Air Canada’s customer service at their dedicated support number. Prepare your booking details and have any questions about changes ready.

• Request Flight Change: Explain your situation to the representative and request a change to your flight. They will inform you about the available options, including new flight choices, fees, and refund possibilities.

• Follow the Instructions: Once a change is confirmed, you’ll receive an updated itinerary, and the representative will guide you through any necessary payment processes.

3. At the Airport

If you’re already at the airport, you can also request to change your flight at the Air Canada ticket counter or kiosk. However, note that airport changes may involve higher fees and limited flight availability, so it’s always better to make the change in advance.

Important Considerations When Changing Your Air Canada Flight

Before you proceed with making changes, it’s essential to keep these things in mind:

• Timing Matters: The closer you are to your departure date, the fewer options may be available, and the more expensive the changes may become. For best results, try to modify your flight at least a few days before your scheduled departure.

• Changes to Connecting Flights: If your flight is part of a multi-leg journey, changing one leg could affect the rest of your itinerary. Make sure to review how the change impacts your entire travel plan.

• Refunds and Vouchers: If your new flight is cheaper than your original flight, you might be entitled to a refund or voucher for the difference. However, if you’re changing to a more expensive flight, you’ll be required to pay the fare difference.

• Travel Insurance: If you’ve purchased travel insurance, review your policy for coverage regarding flight changes. Some policies may help cover fees, depending on the reason for your change.

When to Consider Rebooking Instead of Changing

If the changes to your flight seem costly or complicated, it may sometimes be cheaper to cancel your original flight and book a new one instead. This option is particularly useful when your original flight is non-refundable, and the changes are too expensive.

Conclusion