Air Canada Baggage Policy

When flying, it is essential to understand baggage regulations to avoid complications. Air Canada baggage policy gives passengers the most detailed information on these rules. It specifies the type and quantity of luggage you may carry. Also, to find out about the maximum size and weight restrictions, you should go through this framework.

Air Canada Baggage Allowance Policy

The airline has laid down very detailed guidelines for its customers regarding what they can and cannot carry. It even mentions the maximum limits for size and weight for various ticket types. 

Here is an overview of the baggage policy:

• The operator allows its customers to bring two types of luggage, namely:
  • carry-on 
  • and checked baggage.

• There is no weight limit for carry-on. But passengers are recommended to keep it light.
• For checked baggage, the fare type, destination, and Aeroplan Elite Status play a major role 
• While determining the number of free bags, the above factors are important.
• It has special provisions for special items like:
  • sports gear, 
  • hunting gear, 
  • and musical instruments.

• Military personnel can carry luggage under special provisions of this carrier.
• Additionally, the operator charges fees for extra baggage.
• Air Canada strives to transport your possessions with much care.
• But, due to unforeseen situations, baggage can be delayed or damaged.
• Hence, you have the right to claim refunds and compensation for:
  • delayed 
  • and damaged luggage.

Ensure that these guidelines are followed well. Otherwise, it can result in issues like Air Canada flight cancellation.

Policy for Checked Baggage 

The airline’s checked baggage limit is determined by multiple factors. It is particularly influenced by the: 

• fare type, 
• destination, 
• and the flying status of the customer. 

But there are a few basic rules under Air Canada checked baggage policy. They are:

• All the passengers are entitled to free luggage when traveling with this carrier.
• To learn about the free allowance, you have to use a checked baggage calculator.
• Here, you will have to enter the following details to calculate the allowance:
  • Boarding location
  • Destination
  • Loyalty Program Status
  • Class of Service

• For international flights from Canada, customers are allowed at least one free bag.
• Extra charges are applied for additional allowance for international flights.

Checked Baggage Weight Regulation

Carriers follow regulations for the weights of bags. This is to ensure the safety of the entire flight while flying. The Air Canada baggage weight policy is clear in specifying the maximum weight and measurement.

Checked Baggage Fees on this Airline

Passengers must be aware of baggage fees to plan their trips accordingly. The fee for this carrier depends on several factors. The fare type, destination, etc., of the passenger, affect it.

To know the exact charge that you need to pay for your allowance, use the Air Canada baggage fee calculator on the official website Air Canada. However, the table below demonstrates the basic cost.

For other international travels, you are allowed at least one piece of free baggage. You will have to pay $100 (the maximum fee) for a second bag. 

Currently (on or after 23 August 2022), a second bag charge of $100 is imposed across all markets for each direction when purchasing a Basic, Standard, or Flex fare. This fee had to be paid during the following flight direction:

• The flight between the United States/Canada and South America
• A journey between the United States or Canada and the Middle East/Europe and Africa
• Travel between Canada/the United States, and Asia or the South Pacific

Overweight, Oversized, and Additional Luggage Fee 

When traveling for long vacations or major events, passengers might carry extra items. They tend to exceed the basic checked bag allowance. So, Air Canada baggage policy for weight and size should be checked.

When the overall weight and size of the luggage exceed the permitted limit of your fare type, you will have to pay the following fees:

For additional allowance, you don’t have to pay oversize or overweight charges. The fees are based on the departure and arrival locations of the flights. 

Military Baggage Regulations

When traveling on a flight, military personnel from Canada and the US receive an increased allowance. These benefits are also available on Air Canada Rouge and Air Canada Airlines Express baggage policy. Increased allowance is applicable for duty and personal travels.

Eligibility can only be confirmed once a valid military ID is shown at the airport to an Air Canada Customer Sales and Service agent. Current and former members of the Canadian and United States armies are eligible for up to three units of checked baggage. Each bag can have a maximum weight of 32 kg.

• Self-service check-in is available to eligible military personnel. 
• The special luggage allowance will not be immediately applied during self-service check-in. 

To take advantage of this increased luggage limit after self-service check-in, keep the following points in mind:

• When asked at the check-in point, state that you will fly without checked luggage.
• At the airport, give your military identity to the airline agent to have your luggage:
  • checked 
  • and tagged for free.

Personnel who are eligible for priority check-in may continue straight to the designated area. An agent will apply for the extra allowance when a valid military identification card is presented.

Air Canada Carry-on Baggage Policy

Carry-on is luggage that may be stored in the overhead bin or near the seat of the flight cabin. Bulky carry-ons are not permitted on the plane. All passengers may experience flight delays as a result of this. 

To avoid such discomfort, follow the instructions provided by the operator:

• Bring one standard and one personal article.
• When the passenger is accompanied by an infant, he/she may carry 1 more standard bag.

Note: Members of Star Alliance Gold, who are supposed to travel with two or more member airlines are allowed two carry-ons. 

Under the policy of Air Canada for baggage allowance for carry-ons: 

• Articles are determined as personal/article depending on their size. 
• Some of them are:
  • Roller bags
  • Backpacks
  • Laptops
  • Briefcase
  • Diplomatic bags
  • Camera bags
  • Duty-free and Airport purchases

Weight and Size of Carry-on

Although there is no weight limit for carry-ons, they must be light enough to be handled without assistance. The table below highlights the maximum permitted dimensions for various carry-ons.

Other than your cabin baggage allowance, you may bring the following items on board:

• Outer garments like coats
• Care products for infants
• Stroller (collapsable diameter less than 25.5 cm and length less than 92 cm)
• Special seats for children
• Wrapped food or snacks

To carry your medications on the Air Canada plane, you must carry your prescription. Other health assistance allowances are:

• Mobility aids and other products for people with special needs
• Tools of any size for a mobility aid
• Portable oxygen concentrators and battery-aided medical devices
• Medications in their original, labeled packaging
• Containers with life-sustaining items
• Personal use injections or hypodermic needles, given the tip protections, are intact.

Liquids Under Carry-On Baggage Allowance

As per the baggage policy of Air Canada, do not bring gels or liquids in packages larger than 100 g or 100 ml in your carry-on bag. 

When traveling on a connecting trip, it is recommended that you do not buy drinks or gels in bottles larger than 100 g or 100 ml at the airport or on board. You may do so when you can access your checked luggage between connecting flights.

There should be enough space in your bag to pack duty-free items prior to rechecking for the next connecting flight. Moreover, you are not permitted to bring any alcoholic beverages to the cabin.

Tip: Travelers are advised to buy liquids after passing through the security check.

Electronic Devices with Carry-on 

Electronic gadgets are permitted on board with limitations on usage. Passengers can carry these electronic devices:

Passengers cannot bring the following electronic devices with a carry-on as their usage is absolutely banned on board:

• Radio transmitters and radio-controlled toys
• Printers, computer peripherals, and laser pointers

Pets as Carry-On Baggage

The airline permits you to bring your small dog or cat into the cabin. But they must be in a carrier to be checked in the baggage department. The pet carrier will be counted as one standard carry-on item. 

Other regulations are included in the below-given points.

• Hard-sided carrier’s maximum dimension is:
  • 23 cm in height
  • 40 cm in width
  • 55 cm in length

• Similarly, for a soft-sided carrier, the maximum dimension can be:
  • 27 cm in height
  • 40 cm in width
  • 55 cm in length
• Throughout the flight duration, the pet must stay in its carrier (closed) underneath the front seat.
• The pet container must be sufficiently large for the animal to:
  • rise, 
  • turn about, 
  • and sit safely and comfortably.

• The pet should not extend beyond the carriage in any way.
• Lastly, pet restraining devices are only approved as checked luggage.

Note: To learn the specific regulations for traveling with animals, check the pet policy of Air Canada.

Cremated Remains with Cabin Luggage

Cremated remains may be brought on board in addition to your carry-on baggage limit on Air Canada. Cremated remains should always be contained in a wooden or cardboard box. It can even be carried in an urn that can pass through security screening. To prevent leakage, the lid must be well-fitted.

International travelers must get the necessary documents and credentials before traveling to or through another nation. Detailed information about the transfer of cremated remains may be found on the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority‘s website (CATA). To fly with additional human remains, connect with Air Canada Reservations.

Smart Bag Regulations 

These days, people travel with smart bags. They have special features like GPS tracking, a built-in charger, and other battery-operated features. 

To ensure the safety of the passengers, Air Canada has laid down the given regulations:

• Since lithium batteries pose a possible safety issue, certain precautions are taken.
• You may carry your smart bag on the flight as long as it fits the standards for carry-on luggage.
• When carry-ons are placed in the cargo hold on smaller aircraft, the battery must be removed.
• Similarly, if this bag is to be included in checked baggage, the battery must be removed.

Restricted and Prohibited Items on Baggage for Air Canada

Airlines have a list of prohibited and restricted items for the safety of the entire trip. Certain items have hazardous tendencies when not handled with care. To avoid any mishaps, Air Canada has listed a number of items that can be carried with certain restrictions. Additionally, several goods are not at all permitted. 

This is an overview of the restricted and prohibited items on an Air Canada flight. Specific regulations are applicable to all the items that are permitted on the flight as: 

• carry-ons 
• and checked baggage. 

Tip: To learn more about the rules and regulations for these items, check the official website.

• Passengers are encouraged to consult the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority for important information. 
• The policy of Canada on prohibited and banned products may differ from other nations. 
• Before traveling, verify the regulations with the local airport authority.

For restrictions that apply to travelers departing from the United States or the United Kingdom, visit the official website of the: 

• Transportation Security Administration, 
• U.S. Department of Agriculture, 
• British Airport Authority Department for Environment, 
• and lastly, the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs.

Air Canada Special Baggage Allowance

Passengers are permitted to carry their hunting equipment, musical instruments, and sports gear on this airline. There are specific rules for transporting these special items. You must be thorough about the special baggage policy of Air Canada to avoid any issues.

Hunting Equipment 

This carrier accepts hunting equipment as checked luggage. The following rules apply while transporting hunting equipment.

• You can check-in your hunting gear individually. 
• Each item in the hunting equipment category is counted as one piece of luggage. 
• The count is against the maximum number of checked luggage permitted by your fare class.
• Additional luggage costs will apply when the count exceeds the maximum number of items permitted for your fare category.
• As per the Air Canada check-in baggage policy, the following are subject to a specified handling fee:
  • Horns
  • Antlers
  • Permitted firearms
• Specific instructions are available for the below-mentioned gears:
  • Ammunition
  • Firearms
  • Archery Equipment
  • Bounty
  • Antlers and Horns
  • Fishing Equipment

While you check-in, you can use the service to manage your booking in various ways. The carrier’s representatives can help you in doing so.

Musical Instruments as Carry-on and Checked Baggage

A musical instrument you bring on board will count as either a personal or standard item in your carry-on allowance. So, as long as the musical instrument fits the requirements listed below, you may transport it.

• The size of the instrument must be as per Air Canada carry-on standards.
• The instrument is small enough to fit:
  • in the overhead bin 
  • or under the seat in front of you.

Tip: Visit the official website to learn more about the procedure for carrying your musical instrument to the cabin.

Specific requirements for traveling with a musical instrument as checked baggage are covered under this section.

• When you check in your item separately, each piece is counted, if applicable.
• The count is based on the number of checked bags allowed by your fare class.

When this count exceeds the maximum number of items permissible for your price category, you will be charged extra checked baggage fees.

Tip: In case extra allowance is not available due to any reason, you can change your flight. Then you can reserve additional baggage early.

Sports Equipments

Air Canada allows passengers to bring a variety of sporting equipment with them. It even controls particular transportation restrictions. 

• The majority of the sports gear is covered by the allowance.
• Furthermore, particular pieces can be checked as distinct luggage. 
• You must pay the extra baggage charge if you exceed the maximum quantity allowed under your fare type.

Tip: To check the complete list of sports equipment and the specific regulations, you must visit the authorized website.

Air Canada Baggage Delay/Damaged Policy

This airline is one of the best operators worldwide. It has an efficient baggage transit system. But, due to any unforeseen situation, bags can be delayed or damaged. In such an event, the operator tries to act quickly. Hence, customers are advised to report the issue immediately.

• You must report this to the carrier’s office at the airport.
• Travelers can even contact the airline by dialing 1 888 689 224.
• It is a toll-free contact number available 7 days a week for 24 hours within:
  • the USA 
  • and Canada.

• This is the same for damaged baggage.
• The airline tries to track down and return delayed luggage within 24 hours.
• When the delay or damage occurred within the last 7 days, refunds can be initiated.

Moreover, these conditions are applicable for Air Canada lost baggage policy.

In case your trip suffers in the given scenario, you should be aware of assistance provided for Air Canada delayed flights.

Air Canada Lost Baggage

While the above conditions are a part of the lost luggage policy, there are several other things to be known additionally.

• When your bag is lost, it is possibly arriving late.
• The rules of the delayed luggage policy will be applicable.
• As you report the problem, ensure that you supply the following:
  • Contact details
  • Boarding pass
  • Luggage claim-related stubs
  • Details of bags 
  • Information regarding contents

In accordance with these, the “WorldTracer Incident Report” will be submitted under Air Canada’s lost baggage policy.

Air Canada Baggage Tracker for Lost Items

With this airline, you can find a proper method of finding lost bags. It incorporates a tracking facility. This works via an online form. To locate it, you can use the authorized website.

• The web page for the “Baggage Declaration Form” has to be opened.
• Or, you can search for it on the browser and then open it.
• Include the following details in Air Canada baggage tracker as per “Identification Chart:
  • Bag’s color
  • Its type in terms of numbers

• Other information related to clothing will also be needed:
  • Color
  • Logo
  • Size
  • Brand

• Any unique items placed in bags such as gifts or books can be mentioned.
• You can further mention your contact information.
• Press “Next” to continue.

Soon, you will be able to submit the document and use Air Canada’s baggage tracker.

Tracing Missing Luggage After 3 Days

Usually, this carrier can find your bags within three/3 days. However, when no positive news is obtained, kindly fill in the form for “Baggage Tracing”. This is a part of another form called “Let Us Know”.

Consider these steps to understand how the document has to be found:

• Run your browser.
• Search for the “Air Canada Delayed or Damaged Baggage” page.
• Here, look for the form – “Let Us Know”.
• Click on the link for the said document.
• Fill in the details here to send the “Baggage Tracing” document through the form.

Air Canada Airlines lost baggage policy further guides that the carrier shall reach you soon. You can learn whether your possessions have been found or what other solution is possible.

Refunds and Reimbursements for Delayed, Damaged, & Lost Bags

When your bag was delayed, the carrier will reimburse the checked baggage costs you paid on: 

• Air Canada, 
• Air Canada Express, 
• or Air Canada Rouge flights. 

Within 21 days of receiving your luggage, claims must be submitted. The operator will compensate or reimburse you for reasonable expenditures incurred due to delayed luggage. 

• These include rental prices and essentials. 
• Clothing and toiletries, as well as sports gear rentals, fall under the category of essential items. 
• To make your claims, always keep the receipts intact.

The airline’s obligation to you is limited to “1,288 Special Drawing Rights” (about $2,400 CAD) per traveler. This is for luggage delay, damage, destruction, or loss. The limitation applies to the majority of overseas flights and domestic trips across Canada.

Claiming Refunds/Compensations for Delayed/Damaged/Lost Baggage

Under Air Canada delayed and damaged baggage compensation policy, customers can get refunds and reimbursements. They have to fill out an online claim form. The process is explained below.

Tip: While claiming compensation, ensure that your correct personal details are used. If not, then consider the Air Canada name change feature for corrections.

• Visit the “Let us know” page on the official website of the carrier.
• Here, you need to select “Baggage Issues” and a drop-down menu will appear.
• Select “Delayed or Damaged Baggage”.
• Another menu with several options will appear.
• Select “Submit Expense” and provide the below-mentioned documents:
  • Receipts of rentals and expenses
  • Baggage incident report number
  • Boarding or itinerary passes
  • Baggage tag number 
  • Original purchase receipts (if available)

Damaged, Delay, or Lost Item Policy For Mobility Aid

The airline has established procedures to accommodate differently abled passengers who require mobility aids. Regardless of their best efforts, mobility aids might be delayed, damaged, or lost. When you arrive at your destination and notice damage to your mobility assistance, you must report it right away. 

To create a report, follow these steps:

• Shortly upon arriving, file a report at the baggage claim desk.
• If you are unable to submit a complaint upon arrival, please call “Air Canada Baggage Claims” as soon as possible.
• You can submit a web report by visiting the “Let us Know” page on the official website.
• Select “Baggage issue” and then “Mobility Aid” from the drop-down menu.
• In the second drop-down menu select the delayed or damaged option.
• Submit the following reference documents in case of damage or delay of baggage:
  • Baggage incident report number
  • Boarding or itinerary passes
  • Baggage tag number 
  • Original purchase receipts (if available)
  • Reference picture of the damaged items (in case of damaged mobility aid)

Claims for Such Mobility Aid

When your wheelchair or other mobility assistance is delayed or damaged, the baggage policy of Air Canada Airlines has various alternatives. The carrier will offer you a temporary substitute until your mobility device is recovered.

If you are not provided with a substitute, you may rent one. Keep the rental receipts for future reimbursement. Furthermore, when you fix your broken assistive aid, save the receipts to file claims.

You will need to file another online report to get the compensation from Air Canada. You can claim your expenses with the following steps:

• Visit the “Let us know” page on the site of Air Canada.
• Next, select the “Baggage Issues” option.
• From the drop-down menu, select “Mobility Aid”.
• Then from the second drop-down menu, you must select “Submit Expenses”.
• To complete the process attach these documents:
  • Receipts for repairs or rentals
  • Baggage incident report number
  • Boarding or itinerary passes
  • Baggage tag number 

Note: When your device is broken or lost, the airline will provide you with a similar model.

Air Canada has made every effort to satisfy its customers. The carrier’s baggage policy includes everything, from types to restrictions and refunds to compensations. As a result, this policy is beneficial both before and after flying with the carrier.

Frequently Asked Questions