Air Canada

Looking for Air Canada deals? Air Canada is the flag carrier of Canada and one of the largest airlines in North America. It dominated the domestic market until recently, when carriers like WestJet began to gain popularity. Air Canada flies to all major domestic destinations in Canada, and also to the US, Europe and Asia.

Though it has benefited from government regulations that limited its competition, Air Canada has had a history of financial troubles. Ownership changed after the airline filed for bankruptcy protection in the early 2000s. After that process, the fleet was modernized and entertainment updated to include interactive games, video screens and XM satellite radio available in every seat. Despite these flier-friendly upgrades, the airline is still not financially sound.

Air Canada controls several regional carriers that fly to smaller destinations in the US and Canada. Air Canada Jazz is the highest profile affiliate. Jazz operates like a low-cost carrier. Air Canada charges for meals on its shorter flights, but does not charge for one piece of checked luggage per passenger. This makes Air Canada the only North American legacy carrier to not charge for checked baggage.

Important Information

Hubs: Calgary: YYC, Montreal Trudeau: YUL, Toronto Pearson: YYZ, Vancouver: YVR

Fleet: Airbus A319, A320, A330; Boeing 767, 777, 787

Most popular destinations: Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, New York.

On-time performance: 80%

Extra fees: no fee for first checked bag, OnBoard Café offers for-purchase meals (credit cards only)

Awards program: Aeroplan, member of Star Alliance

Cabin features and services: Standard services and entertainment. In-seat video and music on most planes.