Air Canada Expands Reimbursement Policy for Canceled Flights

Air Canada has announced an expansion of its reimbursement policy for passengers affected by canceled flights during the recent strike. Customers who had their flights canceled between August 15 and August 23, 2023, will now be eligible for reimbursement of alternative travel costs and out-of-pocket expenses.

In a significant update, the airline clarified that passengers who booked their original flights through a travel agency or the Aeroplan loyalty program can also request reimbursement via its online form. This applies in addition to those who purchased tickets directly from Air Canada or Air Canada Rouge. The policy is designed to support passengers who made alternative travel arrangements after their flights were canceled and were not rebooked by the airline.

Eligibility and Exceptions

The reimbursement policy targets passengers whose flights were canceled due to Air Canada’s inability to accommodate them on alternative flights. Notably, the only exceptions are for travelers who booked their original Air Canada flights through a different carrier. In such cases, Air Canada encourages these passengers to pursue reimbursement through the airline they booked with, while offering to cover any cost differences related to alternative travel.

Initially announced last Wednesday, the reimbursement policy was broadened the following day to include “reasonable expenses” incurred for hotel stays, meals, and other related costs. This move reflects Air Canada’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by travelers during the recent operational disruptions.

Operational Recovery

Following the three-day strike by flight attendants, Air Canada’s operations are nearing full capacity. The airline reported on Saturday that 99 percent of domestic, U.S., and international flights are expected to operate normally over the next 24 hours. This swift recovery indicates the airline’s efforts to restore service levels and enhance customer satisfaction.

With the expansion of its reimbursement policy, Air Canada aims to alleviate the financial burden placed on passengers during this challenging period. As travel disruptions continue to affect airlines worldwide, the response from Air Canada serves as a reminder of the importance of customer service in the aviation industry.