About Air Canada
Air Canada is Canada's flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, serving destinations across North America and worldwide. Headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The airline is a member of Star Alliance.
Carry-on Baggage
Carry-on Bag
Personal Item
Checked Baggage Allowance
| Class | First Bag | Second Bag | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy Basic | From CAD $35-$75 | From CAD $50-$100 | 51 pounds (23 kg) | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
| Economy Standard/Flex | Free | From CAD $50-$100 | 51 pounds (23 kg) | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
| Business Class | Free | Free | 70 pounds (32 kg) | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
Additional Bags & Notes
Basic fares: No checked bags included, personal item only
💡 Fees and allowances may vary by route, fare type, and booking date. Always verify on the official Air Canada baggage page before traveling.
Example Baggage Scenarios
Montreal → London (Economy)
Carry-on: 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches (55 x 40 x 23 cm), No weight limit max
Checked bag: 1 piece 51 pounds (23 kg) — From CAD $35-$75
2nd bag: From CAD $50-$100
Tip: Prepay online to lower baggage costs before you arrive at the airport
Montreal → Tokyo (Business Class)
Carry-on: 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches (55 x 40 x 23 cm), No weight limit max + personal item
Checked bags: 2 pieces 51 pounds (23 kg) — Included free
Priority: Business class bags tagged priority for faster delivery
Lounge: Complimentary lounge access with extra bag storage
⚠️ These are typical examples. Actual fees depend on fare type, route, booking date, and frequent flyer status.
Excess Baggage Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Bag / Per Kg | CAD $50-100 flat fee per bag (varies by route) | Varies by route and booking time |
| Prepaid Discount | Save up to 30% when prepaying online | Book online before departure to save |
| Overweight (23-32kg) | CAD $100-225 for bags 23-32kg | Per bag exceeding standard weight |
💰 Pro tip: Always prepay for extra baggage online. Airport fees can be 20-40% higher.
Tips to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees
- Weigh at home: Use a luggage scale before leaving. Most overweight fees start at $50-100 per bag.
- Prepay online: Book extra baggage through Air Canada's website to save 10-20% vs airport prices.
- Wear heavy items: Boots, coats, and heavy clothing don't count toward luggage weight.
- Use compression bags: Vacuum bags reduce clothing volume by up to 75%.
- Check credit card perks: Premium cards often include free checked bags on select airlines.
- Join Aeroplan: Elite members often get free checked bags and priority boarding.
Special Items & Equipment
Air Canada accepts various special items with specific conditions. Advance booking is required for most special items. Contact the airline at least 48-72 hours before departure.
Important: All special items require advance reservation. Airport acceptance is not guaranteed without pre-booking. Fees shown are estimates — actual prices vary by route, season, and availability.
Sports equipment: Golf, hockey, ski equipment accepted
Pre-booking required 48-72h before departure.
Must be properly packed in protective bag/case
Musical instruments: Can be carried on or checked with guidelines
Small instruments cabin-allowed if space permits.
Cellos/large instruments may require seat purchase
Infant baggage: Stroller and car seat checked free
Strollers and pushchairs gate-checked free.
Compact strollers may be allowed in overhead bin
Aeroplan Elite Status: Additional baggage benefits
Contact airline for specific requirements.
Pre-booking recommended
Best Airline in North America - Skytrax
Contact airline for specific requirements.
Pre-booking recommended
Musical Instruments & Sports Equipment — Quick Reference
Musical Instruments
- Cabin: Guitars, violins if overhead space permits
- Extra seat: Cellos, French horns (€100-300)
- Checked: Hard case mandatory, max 32kg
- Booking: Contact airline 72h before flight
Sports Equipment
- Golf: €30-80/bag, max 15kg
- Ski/Snowboard: €40-100/set, max 23kg
- Bicycle: €60-150, must be boxed
- Surfboard: €75-200, depends on length
Hub Airports
Compare Air Canada With Broader Baggage Charts
Use these comparison guides to benchmark this airline against broader cabin, personal item, and checked baggage patterns before you book.