Air Canada Changes Check-In Deadline

Guests flying Air Canada domestic now have an earlier check-in deadline.

As of Sept. 4, 2024, check in closes 60 minutes prior to departure. This is a 15-minute increase for domestic flights, which previously closed 45 minutes prior to departure. 

The new policy standardizes check-in deadlines across domestic, transborder, and international flights. 

“This change ensures a smoother, more efficient boarding and baggage loading process, and gives everyone peace of mind in preparation for takeoff,” the airline said in an emailed statement.

Baggage drop off will continue to close 45 minutes before domestic flights. 

Guests can check in online up to 24 hours before departure, and drop off their luggage up to four hours before departure. 

There are a few exceptions to the new standardized check-in policy. Air Canada flights departing Toronto Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ) and guests booked on the new landline bus service from Hamilton or Kitchener/Waterloo have a check-in deadline of 30 minutes before departure.

The change comes as a possible Air Canada pilot strike is looming.  

Last month, Air Canada’s pilots voted to authorize a strike. The carrier’s approximately 5,400 pilots could be in a strike position as early as Sept. 18 (previously reported Sept. 17). 

In the meantime, the Canadian carrier has updated its rebooking policy in anticipation of a strike. Guests with travel booked from Sept. 15 to 23 can change to any other Air Canada flight with the same origin and destination up to Nov. 30, 2024 without paying additional fees, regardless of fare category.