Choosing your seat before a flight can make your journey more comfortable and stress-free. Air Canada seat selection allows passengers to choose from window seats, aisle seats, extra-legroom seats, or select a seat to sit with family before the day of travel. But depending on your fare type and route, seat selection may be free or paid. This guide explains how seat selection works, how much seat selection costs on Air Canada, and when fees apply—so you can board with confidence.

How Air Canada Seat Selection Works?

Seat selection allows you to choose where you want to sit on the aircraft before travelling. This can be done during booking, after booking through “Manage My Booking,” or at check-in. The earlier you select, the better your chances of getting the seat you prefer.

What You Can Choose:

• Window seat
• Aisle seat
• Middle seat
• Extra legroom seats
• Preferred seats near the front
• Seats together for families or groups

Passengers who skip the seat selection process will automatically receive an assigned seat at check-in, based on availability.

Does Air Canada Charge for Seat Selection?

Yes, Air Canada may charge for seat selection, depending on your fare, route, and the type of seat you choose. Some fare classes include free seat selection, while others require a small fee.

Seat Selection Is Usually Free For:

• Air Canada Business Class
• Air Canada Premium Economy
• Latitude Fare (Economy)
• Aeroplan Elite Members (on many fares)
• Families with children under 14 (seated together)

Seat Selection May Have Fees For:

• Economy Standard
• Economy Flex (some seat types are free, others paid)
• Basic Economy (fees apply for all seat types)
• Extra legroom or preferred seats

The price varies depending on the route and seat type.

How Much Is Seat Selection on Air Canada?

The cost of selecting a seat depends on your fare type and destination. Standard seat selection typically ranges from $10 to $50, while preferred or extra-legroom seats may cost more.

Typical Price Ranges:

• Standard Seats: $10–$30
• Preferred Seats (front section): $20–$80
• Extra-Legroom Seats: $30–$100+
• International Routes: Higher price range due to longer flights

Passengers who do not wish to pay can choose a free seat at airport check-in, but options may be limited.

Free Seat Selection Options on Air Canada

Not every passenger has to pay for seats. In some cases, seat selection on Air Canada is completely free.

You Get Free Seat Selection If:

• You purchased a Premium cabin ticket
• You are an Aeroplan Elite Member
• You booked a Latitude Economy fare
• You are travelling with a child under 14 (Air Canada will seat you together at no charge)
• Your seat is assigned automatically at check-in

Choosing seats early is always recommended for more control over your seating arrangement.

Best Seats on Air Canada Flights

Some seats give you extra comfort, more legroom, or a faster exit from the aircraft.

Best Seat Choices (Generally):

• Front-row seats: Faster exit
• Exit-row seats: Maximum legroom
• Window seats: Good for views and resting
• Aisle seats: Easy access to the restroom
• Preferred seats: Near the front for quicker boarding and deplaning

Choosing these seats depends on your travel style and preference.

Also check out for detailed Air Canada Baggage Policy

How to Select Your Seat on Air Canada?

Selecting your seat can be done in just a few steps.

Ways to Choose Your Seat:

• During the ticket booking process
• Through the “Manage My Booking” section
• During online check-in (24 hours before flight)
• By calling customer service
• At the airport check-in counter

Selecting early gives you the widest range of choices.

Explore full detailed Air canada carry-on size and Air Canada personal item size baggage allowance tips for packing smart on domestic hops like Montreal to New York Read 

Tips to Avoid Paying Extra for Seat Selection

If you want to save money while still getting a good seat, these simple tips help.

Smart Tips to Save Money:

• Book early, as some free seats fill quickly
• Choose fares that include seat selection
• Avoid Basic Economy if you want seat choice
• Join the Aeroplan loyalty program
• Select a free seat at check-in if you’re flexible

Conclusion

Choosing your seat before flying makes your journey more comfortable and organised. Understanding the Air Canada seat selection rules—along with knowing the fees, free options, and best seats—helps you plan ahead and enjoy your trip from the moment you board. Whether you prefer the window, aisle, extra space, or seats together with family, Air Canada offers many choices to match your travel style.

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Book your Air Canada flights with Experianairfare today and pick the perfect seat for your journey.