Air Canada Online Check-In Guide (2026)
Air Canada online check-in opens 24 hours before departure and closes 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights. You can check in via aircanada.com or the Air Canada app using your booking reference or Aeroplan number.
Check-In Timing
| Airline | Air Canada (AC) |
|---|---|
| Check-In Opens | 24 hours before departure |
| Check-In Closes | 45 minutes before domestic departures, 60 minutes before international departures |
| Check-In URL | https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/plan/check-in-information/how-to-check-in.html |
| Mobile App | Air Canada app (iOS, Android) |
| Mobile Boarding Pass | Yes |
| Airport Kiosk | Yes |
Step-by-Step Check-In Guide
1. Visit aircanada.com or open the Air Canada mobile app. 2. Enter your booking reference (6 characters), Aeroplan number, or 13-digit ticket number along with your name. 3. Select your seat and indicate the number of bags you are checking in. 4. Pay any applicable baggage fees. 5. Download your electronic boarding pass to your mobile device or print it. 6. If checking bags, print your baggage tags at an airport kiosk and proceed to the baggage drop-off counter.
Documents Needed
Valid government-issued photo ID for domestic flights. Passport for international flights. Visa, eTA, or ESTA depending on destination. PR card or resident alien card if applicable.
Seat Selection
Standard seat selection is currently free of charge for flights operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, and Air Canada Express. Preferred Seats range from $20 to $199 CAD/USD. Aeroplan Elite Members and Latitude/comfort fare passengers can select Preferred Seats for free.
International Check-In Rules
Passport details required via APIS. Secure Flight information must be provided at least 72 hours before travel for US flights. eTA required for visa-exempt foreign citizens entering Canada. ESTA required for VWP citizens entering the US.
Group Check-In
Groups can check in via the app or online, but it must be done in increments of 9 passengers. For example, a group of 27 passengers requires 3 separate check-in sessions.
Troubleshooting
1. 'Unable to check in online' - May require a document check at the airport, especially for international flights or if travelling with a pet. 2. 'Check-in unavailable' - Ensure you are within the 24-hour window before departure. 3. 'Secondary travel document required' - Ensure you have entered your PR card or resident alien card if applicable.