Travel plans can change unexpectedly, and understanding Air Canada Cancellation Policy is crucial for managing such situations effectively. This guide provides an in-depth look at the various aspects of Air Canada’s cancellation policy, including fare types, refund eligibility, cancellation fees, and procedures.
1. 24-Hour Cancellation Policy
Air Canada offers a 24-hour cancellation window, allowing passengers to cancel their bookings within 24 hours of purchase for a full refund, regardless of the fare type. This policy applies to all bookings made directly through Air Canada, including aircanada.com, the Air Canada mobile app, and contact centers. It’s important to note that the flight must be scheduled to depart at least 14 days later to qualify for this policy.
2. Fare Types and Cancellation Policies
Air Canada’s cancellation policies vary based on the fare type purchased.
Basic Economy: These tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable. Cancellations are only permitted within the 24-hour window.
- Standard Economy, Flex, and Comfort: Cancellations are allowed with a fee of USD 200. After cancellation, the remaining balance is issued as a travel credit, valid for one year from the original date of issue.
- Latitude, Premium Economy Flexible, and Business Class Flexible: These fares are fully refundable with no cancellation fees, provided the cancellation is made before the flight’s departure.
- Premium Economy Non-Flexible and Business Class Non-Flexible: Cancellations are permitted with a fee of USD 200. The remaining balance is provided as a travel credit.
3. Award Tickets (Aeroplan Points)
For tickets booked using Aeroplan points:
- Within 24 Hours: Cancellations are free of charge.
- After 24 Hours:
4. Involuntary Cancellations and Delays
If Air Canada cancels or significantly delays your flight (by three hours or more), you are entitled to:
- A full refund for the unused portion of your ticket.
- An Air Canada Travel Voucher.
- Aeroplan points with a 65% bonus.This policy applies regardless of the fare type purchased.
5. Exceptional Circumstances
In cases of unforeseen events such as illness, bereavement, or military orders, Air Canada may waive cancellation fees. Supporting documentation, like a medical certificate or official orders, is typically required.
6. Refund Processing Times
Refunds are processed based on the original form of payment:
Credit Card Payments: Refunds are typically processed within 7 business days.
Cash or Check Payments: Refunds are processed within 20 calendar days.
Please note that it may take additional time for the refund to appear on your statement, depending on your financial institution.
7. How to Cancel a Booking
You can cancel your Air Canada booking through the following methods:
Online: Visit the “My Bookings” section on aircanada.com, enter your booking reference and last name, select the flight you wish to cancel, and follow the prompts.
- Contact Centers: Call Air Canada’s customer service for assistance with cancellations.
- Travel Agents or Online Travel Agencies: If you booked through a third party, contact them directly to manage your cancellation.
8. Travel Credits and Vouchers
Upon cancellation, you may receive:
Air Canada Travel Voucher: Fully transferable, no expiry date, and can be used multiple times until the balance is depleted.
- Electronic Travel Voucher: Issued via email, non-transferable, and valid for one year from the date of issue.
- ACCredit: A form of travel credit that can be used for future bookings.
- These credits can be used for booking flights or vacation packages through Air Canada.
9. Taxes and Additional Charges
Refundability of taxes and additional charges depends on:
- Type of Ticket: Refundable or non-refundable.
- Usage: Whether the ticket was wholly or partially used.
- Regulations: Country-specific regulations where the ticket was purchased or the departure country.Certain taxes, like the Air Travellers Security Charge in Canada, are refundable within 24 months of ticket issuance if no departure has occurred.
10. Tips for Managing Cancellations
- Review Fare Rules: Always check the fare conditions before booking to understand cancellation policies.
- Act Promptly: If you need to cancel, do so as soon as possible to maximize refund eligibility.
- Keep Documentation: In cases of exceptional circumstances, retain all necessary documents to support your refund request.
- Monitor Communications: Stay updated on any flight changes or cancellations by regularly checking your email and booking status.