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..

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.

Air Canada Seat Selection Guide (2026)

Free for Flex, Comfort, Latitude, Premium Economy, and Business Class. Basic and Standard fares must pay a fee for advance seat selection.

Page updated: August 2026

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Seat Selection Fees

Seat Type	Fee
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.
Exit Row	Exit row seats cost $50 - $150+ CAD/USD.

Free Seat Selection

No — Free for Flex, Comfort, Latitude, Premium Economy, and Business Class. Basic and Standard fares must pay a fee for advance seat selection.

When Can You Select a Seat?

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

How to Select Your Seat

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

Tips for the Best Seats

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

Does Air Canada charge for seat selection?: It depends on your fare class. Flex, Comfort, Latitude, Premium Economy, and Business Class include free advance seat selection. Basic and Standard fares must pay $20–$50 CAD/USD for a standard seat, or $30–$150+ for preferred and extra-legroom seats.
How much is Air Canada seat selection?: Standard seats: $20–$50 CAD/USD per segment. Preferred seats (closer to front): $30–$100+ CAD/USD. Extra-legroom and exit row seats: $50–$150+ CAD/USD. Aeroplan Elite Status members get complimentary advance seat selection on all fares.
Does Air Canada Flex include seat selection?: Yes. Air Canada Flex fares include free advance seat selection for standard seats. Preferred and extra-legroom seats may still require an additional fee depending on availability and route.
Do I have to select a seat on Air Canada?: No. If you don't select a seat, Air Canada will automatically assign one at check-in (24 hours before departure). Basic fare passengers are typically assigned middle seats toward the back. If traveling with children under 14, Air Canada will seat them with an accompanying adult at no extra charge.