Air Canada to Introduce $30 Fee for Phone Bookings Starting Oct. 15

Travellers booking Air Canada flights by phone will soon pay an additional $30 per passenger, as the airline introduces a new Contact Centre booking fee aimed at encouraging customers to use its digital booking channels.

Effective October 15, 2026, Air Canada will charge a non-refundable fee of CA$30, plus applicable taxes, for each passenger on a new reservation completed over the phone with an Air Canada Contact Centre agent.

The fee means a family of four booking flights by phone would pay an additional $120, plus taxes, on top of their airfare.

The new charge will not apply to bookings made through Air Canada’s website or mobile app, which remain free of booking service fees.

In a notice to customers, Air Canada said the move is intended to encourage greater use of its self-service tools while allowing Contact Centre agents to focus on travellers who require personalized assistance.

According to the airline’s newly published FAQ, its digital platforms are designed to handle everyday travel needs, helping reduce telephone wait times and freeing up agents to address more complex situations.

The airline noted that the new policy also aligns with its existing approach to Aeroplan flight reward reservations, which are already subject to a booking fee when completed through its Contact Centre.

What About Travel Advisors?

For travel advisors, Air Canada’s FAQ clarifies that fees charged by third-party travel agencies are determined independently.

Responding to the question of whether customers will face a booking fee when reserving flights through a travel agent, the airline states:

“Travel agents establish their own fees and policies. Please contact your travel agent for details about any fees that may apply.”

Exemptions for Accessibility & Disruptions

Not all customers will be required to pay the new fee.

Air Canada says travellers requiring specialized care or support, including customers with accessibility needs, will be exempt.

The airline also confirmed that customers experiencing flight disruptions will continue to receive assistance without additional booking fees.

If a previously booked flight is delayed, cancelled or otherwise disrupted, customers can contact Air Canada’s agents for assistance without incurring the $30 charge.

Travellers can also use the airline’s website or app to manage eligible itinerary changes, accept alternative flights or request refunds.

Fee Is Non-Refundable

Air Canada has confirmed that the Contact Centre booking fee will not be refunded if a passenger subsequently cancels their ticket or reservation.

The charge will also appear as a separate line item on the customer’s receipt, rather than being included in the airfare or carrier-imposed charges.

For customers who prefer speaking directly with an airline representative when arranging travel, that personalized booking service will remain available — but, beginning October 15, it will come at an additional cost.