Air Canada’s new baggage fees spark government backlash

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calder’s Travel email Get Simon Calder’s Travel email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Air Canada has announced that it will no longer include larger carry-on luggage within its economy ticket prices, drawing criticism from transport officials. “Let’s just say I’m not very happy today with what I’ve heard from Air Canada,” Anand told CTV. It is not acceptable.” Air Canada told the television network that its planned charges are “not new in the Canadian industry and is merely our competitive response,” adding the company “will be pleased to explain this to the government if desired.” Anand admitted that she recognises the extra fees are a business decision made by Air Canada, but says she is “extremely disappointed.” “This is not acceptable at a time when Canadians’ pocketbooks are hurting and when they’ve been saving for their travels,” she added. Air Canada told The Independent that the changes are “simply a competitive response to what is already the prevalent practice in the industry.” “It should be noted that Air Canada offers customers a wide range of fares with various attributes, including allowances for carry-on baggage should customers wish to have this option,” the airline added.