Unpublished fares · Up to 70% off +1-(855)-919-6470

Air Canada Seat Selection Guide (2026)

Last updated: May 1, 2026

Quick Answer

Air Canada does not offer free seat selection. Free for Flex, Comfort, Latitude, Premium Economy, and Business Class. Basic and Standard fares must pay a fee for advance seat selection.

Seat Fees by Category

Seat TypeFee
Standard$20 - $50 CAD/USD per flight segment.
Preferred$30 - $100+ CAD/USD per flight segment (closer to the front).
Extra LegroomPreferred seats with extra legroom (e.g., bulkhead) cost $50 - $150+ CAD/USD.
Exit RowExit row seats cost $50 - $150+ CAD/USD.

When Can You Select a Seat?

Available for purchase at the time of booking or anytime before check-in for Basic and Standard fares.

Seat Map Availability

Available during booking and via 'My Bookings' on the website or app.

How to Select Your Seat

  1. 1During booking, choose your seat from the seat map.
  2. 2After booking, go to 'My Bookings' on the Air Canada website.
  3. 3Enter your booking reference and last name.
  4. 4Click on 'Change Seats' and select your preferred seat.
  5. 5Pay any applicable fees to confirm your selection.

Expert Tips for the Best Seat

💡 Check-in exactly 24 hours before departure for the best selection of remaining free seats.

💡 Basic fare passengers may be automatically assigned a seat at check-in.

💡 Aeroplan Elite Status members get complimentary advance seat selection.

💡 If traveling with children under 14, Air Canada will assign seats together for free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is seat selection free on Air Canada?▼
Free for Flex, Comfort, Latitude, Premium Economy, and Business Class. Basic and Standard fares must pay a fee for advance seat selection.
How much does Air Canada charge for seat selection?▼
Standard: $20 - $50 CAD/USD per flight segment.. Preferred: $30 - $100+ CAD/USD per flight segment (closer to the front).. Extra Legroom: Preferred seats with extra legroom (e.g., bulkhead) cost $50 - $150+ CAD/USD..
When can I select a seat on Air Canada?▼
Available for purchase at the time of booking or anytime before check-in for Basic and Standard fares.
What happens if I don't select a seat on Air Canada?▼
You'll be assigned a seat at check-in, typically a middle seat in the back of the plane.

More Air Canada Guides

Baggage Policy
Fees, sizes & limits
Online Check-In
Step-by-step guide
Cancellation Policy
Fees & refunds
Carry-On Rules
Size limits & weight
Compare Airlines
Head-to-head tool
⚽FIFA 2026
Call Expert Search Flights
Menu
Quick Links
+1-(855)-919-6470