Air Canada Change Flight Policy: A Complete Traveler’s Guide for 2025

Changing travel plans is common—sometimes it’s a meeting reschedule, a family emergency, or even a last-minute vacation extension. Whatever the reason, knowing how the Air Canada change flight policy works can help you manage those plans smoothly and avoid extra charges.

In this guide, we’ll take a close look at how Air Canada handles flight changes, the rules that apply to different fare classes, potential fees, and how you can make those changes step-by-step. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-time traveler, this blog gives you all the information you need to make confident decisions.

Why Is It Important to Understand the Air Canada Change Flight Policy?

Airlines often promote flexibility, but the fine print can be confusing. The Air Canada change flight policy outlines how and when you can modify your booking, and under what conditions.

Understanding this policy ensures you:

Avoid unnecessary change fees
Know your rights when Air Canada changes your flight
Choose the right fare type for future flexibility
Save time by handling changes through the right channels

Who Can Change Their Flight with Air Canada?

Most travelers can change their Air Canada flight—if the ticket was purchased directly from Air Canada or an approved partner. But your ability to make changes (and how much it costs) depends on your fare type, when you make the change, and how the change is initiated (by you or the airline).

Breakdown of Fare Classes and Change Rules

Different fare types come with different levels of flexibility. Let’s look at how the Air Canada change flight policy applies to each one.

1. Basic Economy (No Changes Allowed)

Changeable? ❌ No
Refundable? Only within 24 hours of booking
Ideal for: Travelers with fixed plans

The lowest fare class comes with the strictest rules. You cannot change your flight once it’s booked unless you cancel within 24 hours of purchase.

2. Standard Fare

Changeable? ✅ Yes
Change Fee: Applies (varies by route)
Fare Difference? Yes
Ideal for: Budget travelers who need minimal flexibility

This fare allows changes, but usually with a moderate fee. It offers a balance between cost and limited flexibility.

3. Flex Fare

Changeable? ✅ Yes
Change Fee: Reduced
Fare Difference? Yes
Ideal for: Travelers who want more freedom without paying for premium seats

Flex fares are popular among business travelers and those who expect potential changes in schedule.

4. Comfort Fare

Changeable? ✅ Yes
Change Fee: Often waived
Extras: Preferred seat selection and early boarding
Ideal for: Regular travelers looking for more comfort and ease of changes

Comfort fares are great if you’re willing to pay a bit more upfront for convenience.

5. Latitude, Premium Economy & Business Class

Changeable? ✅ Yes
Change Fee: Usually none
Fare Difference? Yes
Ideal for: Business travelers or those needing maximum flexibility

These higher-tier tickets offer full flexibility. You can change your flight anytime before departure without a penalty, though you’ll still cover the fare difference.

Changing Your Air Canada Flight: Step-by-Step

Air Canada gives travelers a few ways to modify their flights. You can do it online, through their app, by calling customer service, or even at the airport counter.

✅ Option 1: Online (Manage My Booking)

Visit aircanada.com
Click on “Manage Bookings”
Enter your booking reference and last name
Choose “Change Flight”
Select a new date, time, or route
Pay applicable fees or fare difference
Receive confirmation by email

✅ Option 2: Air Canada Mobile App

Log into your account or access your reservation
Tap on “My Trips”
Click on the specific trip and choose “Change Flight”
Follow prompts and confirm changes

✅ Option 3: Call Air Canada Support

Dial the customer service number listed on your booking confirmation
Provide your booking details and request your preferred changes
Customer service will assist with available options and applicable costs

✅ Option 4: At the Airport

Approach the Air Canada desk or use a self-serve kiosk
Useful for same-day or last-minute changes
ID and booking details are required

How Much Does It Cost to Change a Flight?

Under the Air Canada change flight policy, change fees vary by fare type, route, and timing. Below is a general guideline:

Route Type	Estimated Change Fee
Domestic (Canada)	$75–$150 CAD
U.S. and Canada Routes	$100–$200 CAD
International Flights	$200–$300 CAD
Same-Day Changes	Often free or lower fee

You’ll also be responsible for any fare difference. For example, if your original flight cost $300 and the new one costs $380, you’ll pay $80 more, even if no change fee applies.

What Happens If Air Canada Changes Your Flight?

Sometimes, the airline may reschedule or cancel your flight due to weather, technical issues, or operational changes. In such cases, the Air Canada change flight policy shifts in your favor.

✈️ Airline-Initiated Changes

You’ll be rebooked automatically on the next available flight
If the new flight doesn’t work for you, you can request a different flight at no extra cost
For significant delays or changes (usually 3+ hours), you may be eligible for a refund or credit

This policy is designed to protect passengers from unexpected disruptions.

What About Award Tickets (Aeroplan)?

If you booked your flight using Aeroplan points, the Air Canada change flight policy still applies, but with some specific considerations:

Changes are allowed for most Aeroplan tickets
A change fee may apply depending on your membership level
Fare or point differences will be charged for the new flight
Changes can be made online or via Aeroplan’s support team

Time Restrictions on Flight Changes

Air Canada enforces certain time rules on when you can modify your ticket.

⏱️ Within 24 Hours of Booking

You can cancel or change your flight without any fee
Applies to all fare classes

⏱️ More Than 60 Days Before Departure

Lower change fees and better seat availability
Fare differences still apply

⏱️ Within 60 Days of Departure

Higher change fees usually apply
Less availability on alternative flights

⏱️ Same-Day Flight Changes

Available for most fares except Basic
Must be requested at least 2 hours before original flight
Useful for early returns or later departures

Can You Change Your Destination?

Yes, but there are limitations. You can:

Change your departure or arrival city
You’ll be charged any fare difference
Some ticket types (like Basic) won’t allow changes at all
International tickets may have added taxes or fees

Be aware that changing the origin/destination often costs more than modifying the travel date or time.

Exceptions to Know

There are unique cases where the Air Canada change flight policy may work differently:

Medical emergencies: Air Canada may waive change fees with supporting documents
Travel insurance: Some insurance covers cancellation and change fees
Government restrictions: In cases of border closures or public health alerts, more flexibility is offered

Always contact customer service for exception requests. Documented proof helps.

Smart Tips for Managing Flight Changes

If you’re booking with Air Canada and think you may need to change your flight later, keep these tips in mind:

✅ Book Higher Fare Classes

It costs more upfront, but the flexibility is worth it if plans are likely to shift.

✅ Avoid Basic Economy

These tickets offer the least flexibility and usually don’t allow changes.

✅ Check for Waivers

During weather events or crises, airlines may offer free changes.

✅ Sign Up for Alerts

Be notified of any changes by enabling email or SMS alerts in your Air Canada profile.

✅ Use Aeroplan for Flexible Bookings

Frequent flyers can benefit from points-based bookings with lower change penalties.

Final Thoughts: What You Should Remember

The Air Canada change flight policy gives you the flexibility to adapt your travel plans when life throws a curveball. But knowing the rules and acting within the timelines can make all the difference.

Key takeaways: