How Much Does Air Canada Charge for Seat Selection?

Author: Affluenece Travels

When booking a flight, the ticket price is only part of the story. For many travelers, choosing where to sit is just as important as the journey itself. From extra legroom to making sure families stay together, seat selection shapes the travel experience. But with Air Canada seat selection, the cost depends on your fare type, route, and even frequent flyer status.

Let’s break it down so you can avoid surprises at checkout and make the smartest choice for your next trip.

Seat Selection Costs by Fare Type1. Basic Economy

This is Air Canada’s lowest fare—and the most restrictive.

  • Standard seat selection is not free.

  • Expect to pay $14–$60 (CAD/USD) on domestic and Canada–U.S. flights.

  • On international routes, fees usually range from $30–$90.

  • If you skip pre-selection, Air Canada assigns a random seat at check-in.

2. Standard Economy

A step above Basic, but still budget-friendly.

  • Seat selection usually requires the same fees as Basic: $14–$60 domestically, $30–$90 internationally.

  • On certain long-haul flights, standard seat selection may be complimentary.

3. Flex, Comfort, and Latitude Fares

These fares offer much more flexibility and comfort.

  • Standard seat selection is free.

  • Preferred seats (extra legroom, front-of-cabin) may also be complimentary depending on the route.

  • For frequent flyers, this is often the most cost-effective option.

Route Matters: Domestic vs. International

Seat fees also vary depending on where you’re flying:

Route Type

Standard Seat Fee

Preferred Seat Fee

Canada / Canada–U.S.

$14–$60

$20–$199

International Flights

$30–$90

$20–$199

Long-Haul International

Often free (Standard fare)

$20–$199

Real Examples from TravelersTo put this into perspective:

  • San Francisco → Vancouver: Standard seat ~US$34; Preferred ~US$62.

  • Miami → Vancouver: Standard seat ~US$45; Preferred ~US$96.

  • Los Angeles → Vancouver → Tokyo: Standard seats included, but Preferred seats cost up to US$133.

These examples show how international connections often waive the standard seat fee—a perk worth noting.

Preferred Seats: Worth the Extra Cost?

Air Canada’s Preferred Seats are located in exit rows, bulkhead rows, and front sections of the cabin. They offer:

  • Extra legroom

  • Early boarding (Zone 3)

  • Faster deplaning

Prices range from $20–$199 CAD/USD depending on the route.

Aeroplan Elite Perks

Frequent flyers with Aeroplan Elite Status get big advantages:

  • Super Elite 100K: Free preferred seats on all flights.

  • 75K members: Free on Flex or higher fares.

  • 50K members: Free on Flex or Standard within North America.

  • 25K & 35K members: Free at check-in on Flex or Standard fares.

Policy Update for 2025

Starting January 21, 2025, Air Canada will assign Basic fare passengers a seat at check-in. Changing that seat will require a paid fee. This makes it even more important to understand your seat options when booking.

FAQs on Air Canada Seat Selection

Q1: Is seat selection free on Air Canada?

Yes, for Flex, Comfort, and Latitude fares—or with Aeroplan Elite status.

Q2: How much do preferred seats cost?

Between $20–$199 CAD/USD, depending on the route.

Q3: What happens if I don’t choose a seat?

You’ll be assigned one at check-in, but you might get separated from your group.

Q4: Do families with kids have to pay?

No. Children under 14 are seated next to a parent/guardian free of charge.

Q5: Will seat selection fees change in 2025?

Yes—Basic fare passengers will no longer be able to switch free seats at check-in without paying a fee.

Final Thoughts

Air Canada seat selection costs vary widely depending on fare and route. For some travelers, paying for a preferred seat is worth the comfort. For others, upgrading to Flex or Comfort may save more in the long run.

The bottom line? Plan ahead, know your fare rules, and always compare the total ticket cost (including seat fees) before booking. That way, your next Air Canada journey will be smooth—from booking to landing.