Air Canada is expecting to fly over 2 million passengers over the holidays, and it's offering time-saving travel tips and useful links to make those journeys easier as airports get busier.
"We know that airports will be busy and our aircraft full," said Kevin O'Connor, Vice President of Air Canada's Systems Operational Control, which oversees the carrier's daily operation.
"In anticipation, we've made extensive preparations to transport our customers safely and conveniently, including hiring people to bring staffing above pre-Covid levels, readying equipment for winter weather, and prudently scheduling flights. Customers can further ensure smooth travels by preparing in advance with a few simple measures. We want all our customers to have a great holiday, particularly as they travel, and we wish everyone the best for the season,"
Before Going to the Airport
At the time of booking, guests are advised to make sure that all details, including name spellings and travel dates, are correct and that an e-mail address and mobile phone number are provided.
Customers are recommended to check-in online at Air Canada's website or on the Air Canada Mobile App beginning within 24 hours of their flight, which saves time at the airport. It is a good idea to check the flight's status before going to the airport as well as allowing enough time to meet the check-in cut-off deadlines. Many airport websites have information and services to ease the process, such as posted wait times for check-in and security, the ability to pre-book screening and reserve parking.
Tools for Travellers
Air Canada recommends that guests install the Air Canada Mobile app on any Apple or Android device. It can be used to check-in, to securely store customer contact information, preferences and payment details, arrange for checked baggage, and to obtain a boarding pass (eliminating the need for a paper boarding pass). The app also allows the airline to communicate directly to customers any updates to their itineraries. Aeroplan can also be synched with the app.
Baggage
Travel experts agree, most people overpack! Air Canada urges travellers to rethink packing to avoid problems at the airport. Its website has information about baggage allowances, including carry-on limits. When packing, travellers are advised to ensure required medication, keys and valuables – including money, electronics, and jewellery – are kept in a carry-on bag.
For information on government security screening of carry-on items, please visit the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority website.
A sturdy identification tag should be attached to all checked baggage along with a business card or similar item with contact details inside each piece . Customers should be mindful that excess carry-on baggage can result in boarding and flight delays. It is therefore encouraged to limit carry-ons and kindly comply if a gate agent makes a request for carry-on baggage to be gate-checked.
Documents and Useful Apps for International Travel
Travellers are advised to visit Air Canada's Travel Ready hub for international entry requirements. Customers are responsible for meeting all entry requirements, including holding the correct travel documents, visas, or health certificates, for any flights they purchase. Additional information is available from the International Air Transport Association and advice on travelling abroad is available at the Government of Canada Travel and Tourism website.
Travellers going to the U.S. can use the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's MPC app to submit their passport and customs declaration information to streamline the entry process into the U.S.
When returning to Canada, customers can save time by using the ArriveCAN web or mobile app to make their customs and immigration declaration to the Canada Border Services Agency up to 72 hours in advance of their arrival at select airports.
Note: Government requirements may change with little notice.
Other Helpful Information
Air Canada's website contains other useful information. This includes details on its family friendly travel programs, with tips for flying with children.
Customers with special needs are asked to contact the airline's Medical Desk in advance to ensure accessibility assistance is provided. People taking skis, golf clubs, musical instruments or other over-sized items can find information on packing.
As Open Jaw has also reported, Pearson Airport also issued tips and introduced new tools to help passengers smoothly navigate Canada's busiest airport this holiday season.
