Air Canada Announces ‘Basic’ Fare Options for Premium Economy & Business Class

With demand for premium air travel continuing to grow, Air Canada is following several other major carriers by launching  basic business class and basic premium economy class fares. 

The new fare categories are available for travel within the Caribbean, Latin America, Mexico and South America and on transatlantic joint venture routes. 

They provide all the benefits of travelling in the premium cabins, including meals, entertainment, priority boarding and baggage, and Aeroplan points and status.

The key differences are that tickets are nonrefundable, changes will invoke fees, and seat selection will come at a price. The tickets will not be eligible for eUpgrades. Lounge access is not included for Basic Premium Economy, but Basic Business Class customers will be able to access the airline’s Maple Leaf lounges with the exception of the Signature Suites available in Toronto and Vancouver.

In terms of Aeroplan, eligible benefits for Aeroplan Elite Status members, Star Alliance Gold members and Aeroplan premium credit cardholders will continue to apply. On both Basic Premium Economy and Basic Business fears, pax will earn one Aeroplan point per eligible dollar spent on the base fare and carrier-imposed surcharges. Aeroplan Elite Status members can earn between two and six points per dollar depending on their status.

The new fare categories are as follows: 

• Premium Economy Basic: PB / BO
• Business Class Basic: EB / BZ