It feels like the days of carefree flying with complimentary carry-on are coming to an end. In September, US airlines tightened restrictions on carry-on baggage size and weight. These changes were implemented to enhance airport security and streamline boarding. The new rules limit carry-on bag weight to between 15 and 22 pounds. And while we were all worrying about budget airlines being the strictest in enforcing these rules, little did we know that another major would announce that it would no longer include larger carry-on luggage within its economy tickets. The new regulation by Air Canada has drawn criticism from transport officials and the government.
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Air Canada Will Soon Make You Pay to Bring a Rolling Suitcase as Carry-On
Starting January 3, 2025, the airline will impose fees on larger carry-on items, a move that aligns with industry trends but has raised concerns about affordability and convenience.
Previously, even the most basic economy tickets allowed passengers to bring a personal item and a larger carry-on bag, such as a backpack or a small suitcase, free of charge. However, under the new rules, travelers will be required to pay a fee of around $25 for one carry-on bag and $35 for a second. A handbag, laptop case, or another small personal item will remain free.
In addition to the baggage fee changes, Air Canada is also modifying its seat selection policies for basic economy fares. Passengers who are randomly given a seat will now be charged to make a change. The cost of a seat change will vary depending on the new seat selected.
While these changes may seem minor, they could significantly impact the overall travel experience, especially for budget-conscious travelers. The added fees could eat into travel budgets and potentially deter people from choosing Air Canada as their preferred carrier — if they have a choice depending on location.
Canadian Transport Minister Anita Anand strongly disapproves of Air Canada’s decision. In mid-December, she plans to meet with the CEOs of all Canadian airlines to discuss the industry’s practices and advocate for consumers’ interests.
“Let’s just say I’m not very happy today with what I’ve heard from Air Canada,” Anand tells CTV News. “I think they need to take a look at the persons that they are targeting with these excess fees. It is not acceptable.”
Anand acknowledged that airlines have the right to make business decisions, but she emphasized that these decisions should be made with the best interests of consumers in mind. She expressed concern that the new fees could disproportionately affect lower-income travelers.
Air Canada maintains that its new policies are in line with industry trends and are necessary to remain competitive. The airline points to similar policies implemented by other carriers, such as United Airlines in the US, which requires basic economy passengers to pay a fee for carry-on bags.
However, critics argue that these fees are excessive and could harm the airline’s reputation. They contend that Air Canada should focus on providing better service and improving the overall travel experience, rather than squeezing more money out of passengers. 