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Air Canada Change Flight Policy – A Complete Overview
Air Canada offers flexible options for passengers who need to make changes to their flight itinerary. However, the rules may vary based on fare type, travel route, and time of change. Below, we break down the key aspects of the airline’s flight change policy:
1. Timeframe for Making Changes
Passengers can change their flight up to 2 hours before departure for most domestic and international routes. However, some exceptions may apply for Basic Economy fares and certain promotional tickets.
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Within 24 hours of booking: You can make changes or cancel your flight for free, thanks to Air Canada’s 24-hour flexible booking policy.
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After 24 hours: Change fees and fare differences may apply depending on your fare type.
2. Change Flight Options by Fare Type
Understanding your fare class is critical to know what changes are allowed. Here's a breakdown:
Basic Economy
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Not eligible for flight changes after 24 hours of booking.
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Non-refundable and non-changeable.
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Only name corrections are allowed (with limitations).
Standard Economy
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Changes are allowed for a fee, plus any fare difference.
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Must be made at least 2 hours before departure.
Flex, Comfort, and Latitude
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Flex & Comfort: Change fees apply, but lower than Standard fares.
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Latitude: Fully flexible; changes can be made with no change fee.
Premium Economy & Business Class
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Highly flexible options.
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Often allow free same-day flight changes (depending on availability).
Air Canada Flight Change Fee – What You Need to Know
One of the most common concerns for travelers is the Air Canada flight change fee, which can vary depending on multiple factors. Below is a detailed outline:
Fare Type | Domestic Flights | International Flights |
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Basic Economy | Not Allowed | Not Allowed |
Standard Economy | $100–$200 CAD | $150–$300 CAD |
Flex | $50–$100 CAD | $75–$150 CAD |
Comfort | Often Waived | May Apply (lower fees) |
Latitude | Free | Free |
Business / Premium | Free or Minimal Fee | Free or Minimal Fee |
How to Change Your Air Canada Flight
You can modify your flight booking through several convenient channels:
1. Online (via AirCanada.com or Mobile App)
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Go to “My Bookings.”
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Enter your booking reference and last name.
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Select “Change Flight” and follow the prompts.
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Pay any applicable Air Canada flight change fee and fare difference.
2. Via Customer Service
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Call Air Canada Reservations for assistance.
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Available 24/7 for urgent travel modifications.
3. Airport Ticket Counter
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Last-minute changes can be made at the airport at least 2 hours prior to flight time.
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Helpful if you're already en route or unable to access online tools.
Air Canada Same-Day Flight Changes
For those needing to switch to an earlier or later flight on the same day, Air Canada offers same-day change options:
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Available for Flex, Comfort, Latitude, and Business class.
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Subject to seat availability.
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Some fares may incur a same-day change fee, usually between $75–$100 CAD.
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Must be requested at the airport or through customer service (not available online for all fares).
Important Rules to Remember
Here are key policy rules to keep in mind:
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Name Changes Not Allowed: Air Canada does not permit full name changes, only minor corrections.
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Fare Differences Apply: Even if no change fee applies, fare differences (if any) must be paid.
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Non-Refundable Tickets: Cannot be refunded but may be rebooked for a fee (if eligible).
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Codeshare & Partner Airlines: If your ticket includes flights with partner airlines (e.g., United, Lufthansa), additional rules may apply.
Can You Change a Flight Booked with Aeroplan Miles?
Yes! If you’ve booked an award ticket with Aeroplan points:
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Changes are allowed up to 2 hours before departure.
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A change fee may apply, typically $100–$150 CAD.
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Changes must be made via the Aeroplan website or customer service.
COVID-19 & Travel Flexibility
Air Canada temporarily adjusted its change policies during the COVID-19 pandemic. While those waivers have mostly ended, they continue to offer enhanced flexibility:
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Free changes for certain promotional or travel credit fares.
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Travel credits valid for 24 months in many cases.
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Always review the most recent updates on the website
Need Help? Contact Air Canada Support
If you're facing any trouble changing your flight, you can contact:
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Air Canada Reservations: Available globally with multi-language support.
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Live Chat: Through Air Canada’s official app or website.
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Airport Staff: For last-minute, same-day travel changes.
Tips to Avoid Change Fees
Here are some practical tips to avoid or reduce the Air Canada flight change fee:
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Buy Flex or Latitude Fare – These allow more flexibility.
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Act Quickly – Make changes within 24 hours of booking for free.
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Use Travel Insurance – Some policies cover change fees due to emergencies.
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Monitor Fare Sales – If your new flight is cheaper, you may save money.
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Call Customer Support – In special cases (illness, death in family), fees may be waived.
Final Thoughts: Is Air Canada Flexible With Flight Changes?
Air Canada has implemented a structured yet flexible system that allows passengers to change flights with relative ease—if they understand the fare rules. While Basic Economy fares offer little to no flexibility, Flex, Comfort, and Premium fares give travelers options with reduced or no change fees. The Air Canada change flight policy is designed to give control back to passengers—provided they stay informed and proactive.

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