When booking a flight, one of the most important decisions—beyond choosing the destination and timing—is selecting the right seat. For travelers flying with Air Canada, the seat you choose can significantly impact your comfort, convenience, and overall flight experience. Whether you’re taking a short domestic trip or embarking on a long-haul international journey, understanding Air Canada’s seat selection policies and pricing is key to a smoother, more enjoyable flight.

Air Canada offers a variety of seating options across its different fare types and classes of service. From standard economy seats to extra legroom in Preferred Seats, and premium experiences in Premium Economy or Business Class, the airline provides flexibility to meet different travel needs and budgets. However, fees for seat selection vary depending on your fare type, destination, and even your loyalty status with Air Canada’s Aeroplan program.

Air Canada Seat Selection: A Complete Guide with Price

In this complete guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about selecting seats on Air Canada flights—including who gets free seat selection, how much it costs if you need to pay, and the best strategies for getting the seat you want. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a family, this guide will help you navigate the options confidently and effectively.

You can also take guidance from Airlines Ticket Policy and smoothly carry out your journey.

Understanding Air Canada's Seat Selection Options

Air Canada offers a range of seating choices to cater to different passenger preferences and budgets. Here's an overview of the primary seat categories:

1. Standard Seats

Standard seats are the default seating option and include window or aisle seats. The availability and cost of these seats depend on your fare type and route.

  • Basic Fare: Seat selection is available for a fee.
  • Standard Fare: Seat selection is available for a fee on flights within Canada, to/from the U.S., and on select international itineraries. For all other itineraries, seat selection is complimentary.
  • Latitude, Comfort, and Flex Fares: Seat selection is complimentary.

2. Preferred Seats

Preferred seats are located in exit rows, certain bulkhead rows, and the first few rows of the cabin. These seats offer extra legroom or are situated closer to the front of the aircraft.

  • Pricing: Preferred seat prices range from $20 to $199 CAD/USD.
  • Complimentary Access: Aeroplane Elite Members and customers traveling on Latitude or Comfort fares can select a Preferred Seat at no extra cost on select routes.

3. Premium Economy and Business Class

Premium Economy and Business Class seats offer enhanced comfort, additional amenities, and priority services.

  • Premium Economy: Offers more comfortable seating with extra recline, additional amenities like charging outlets, and extensive in-flight entertainment.
  • Business Class: Provides fully flat beds, premium dining options, and access to Maple Leaf Lounges.

How to Select or Change Your Seat

You can select or change your seat through the following methods:

  1. During Booking: Choose your seat as you complete your booking.
  2. After Booking: Log in to the "My Bookings" section on the Air Canada website or mobile app to select or change your seat up to 2 hours before departure.
  3. At Check-In: Within 24 hours of your flight, check in online or on your mobile device. If you haven't selected a seat, one will be assigned to you. To change your assigned seat, choose from the remaining seats. A fee may apply depending on the seat you have selected and the fare you purchased.

Traveling with Children

Air Canada prioritizes seating arrangements for families traveling with children under the age of 14. To ensure that children are seated with a parent or guardian:

  • Before Booking: Indicate that you are traveling with young children.
  • After Booking: Verify that your child has automatically been seated with a parent or guardian by visiting the "My Bookings" section. Alternatively, contact Air Canada Reservations or your travel agent to make the necessary changes.

Tips for Selecting the Best Seat

  • Book Early: Selecting your seat early increases the likelihood of securing your preferred spot.
  • Consider Upgrading: If you value extra legroom or proximity to the front of the cabin, consider selecting a Preferred Seat.
  • Check for Complimentary Options: If you're an Aeroplane Elite Member or traveling on a Latitude or Comfort fare, you may be eligible for complimentary seat selection.
  • Review Seat Maps: Use tools like SeatGuru to review seat maps and read reviews to choose the best seat for your needs.
Conclusion

Air Canada’s seat selection system is designed to offer travelers flexibility, comfort, and a range of options tailored to various budgets and travel needs. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, in Economy or Business Class, understanding your seating options—and their associated costs—can significantly enhance your overall flight experience. From complimentary selections for higher fare classes and Aeroplan Elite members to paid upgrades for Preferred Seats with extra legroom, Air Canada ensures that every traveler has the opportunity to choose what matters most to them: comfort, convenience, or savings.

By planning ahead, you can make the most of these options. Booking early gives you access to better seat choices, while knowing the differences between fare types helps you avoid unnecessary fees. If you're traveling with children, rest assured that Air Canada makes efforts to keep families seated together. And for those who value perks like additional space or priority access, upgrading to Preferred Seating or Premium Economy may be well worth the investment.

Ultimately, your seat can shape your in-flight experience, from boarding to arrival. With the insights from this guide, you’re better equipped to choose a seat that suits your needs and enjoy a more comfortable and personalized journey with Air Canada. 



Frequently Asked Questions on Air Canada Seat Selection: A Complete Guide with Price
A1: Yes, if you're traveling on a Standard, Latitude, Comfort, or Flex fare, seat selection is complimentary. Additionally, Aeroplane Elite Members may be eligible for free seat selection depending on their status level and fare type.
A2: Seat selection fees are generally non-refundable. However, if you're moved to a seat other than the one you selected due to an involuntary schedule or airport change (e.g., flight disruption, aircraft change, cancellation), you may request a refund of your seat charges.
A3: No, Aeroplane points cannot be used to purchase seat selection.
A4: Utilize tools like SeatGuru to review seat maps and read reviews to choose the best seat for your needs.
A5: Yes, you can change your seat after check-in by accessing the "My Bookings" section on the Air Canada website or mobile app. A fee may apply depending on the seat you have selected and the fare you purchased.