Upgrading your seat with Air Canada can transform your journey, whether you're boosting comfort for a long-haul vacation or adding a touch of luxury to a business trip. But knowing how Air Canada upgrade fees work — including last-minute options, Premium Economy, and upgrade pricing after booking — helps ensure you get the best value.
This guide covers everything travelers need to know:
Types of upgrades
Eligibility and how to request upgrades
Cost factors and pricing expectations
Last-minute upgrade opportunities
Aeroplan points upgrades
Changes after booking
FAQs and tips
Whether you’re flying domestically within Canada or internationally to Europe or Asia, here’s how to maximize your experience with Air Canada.
Why Upgrade with Air Canada?
Air Canada offers upgrades across several cabin classes:
Original TicketPossible Upgrade ToEconomy (Standard / Flex / Comfort)Premium Economy or Business ClassPremium EconomyBusiness Class
Upgrades may include benefits like:
Wider seats with more legroom
Enhanced dining
Priority services (boarding, check-in, baggage)
Access to Maple Leaf Lounges (Business Class)
Superior comfort for long flights
Understanding the Air Canada upgrade fee structure will help you choose the best upgrade option for your needs.
Upgrade Options with Air Canada
Air Canada offers different ways to upgrade depending on fare type and membership.
Air Canada Upgrade Fee (Paid Upgrade)
You can pay directly for a seat upgrade:
During initial booking
After booking via Manage My Booking
At check-in or airport counter (when available)
Paid Air Canada seat upgrade prices vary based on:
Flight route (domestic vs. international)
Travel class differences
Ticket type and fare category
Remaining seat availability
Time of request
More availability often means better pricing.
Air Canada Last-Minute Upgrade
If seats remain close to departure, Air Canada may offer discounted upgrade pricing at:
Online check-in (usually 24 hours before departure)
Airport kiosks
Check-in desk or gate
These are sometimes marketed as Air Canada last-minute upgrade deals and can save hundreds of dollars vs. pre-booking.
However:
Not guaranteed on every flight
Higher demand flights rarely offer discounts
Elite members may take remaining inventory first
Still, if you're flexible, last-minute offers can be the cheapest upgrade strategy.
Aeroplan Points Upgrade
Aeroplan members can request upgrades using points:
Request through the website or mobile app
Priority for Elite Status members
May require co-pay fees depending on fare and route
This is a great option for frequent flyers and long-haul travelers.
Bid Upgrades (eUpgrade & AC Bid)
Air Canada occasionally sends invitations to bid on Business or Premium Economy upgrades:
Enter your offer online
Wait for confirmation 48–72 hours pre-departure
Higher bids have better success
This allows travelers more flexibility in choosing how much to spend.
Premium Economy Upgrade Options
If you purchased a standard Economy ticket, upgrading to Air Canada Premium Economy offers:
Extra-wide seats and more legroom
Better meal service
Priority services
Prices vary, but Air Canada upgrade to Premium Economy fees are often cheaper vs. moving to Business Class — making it a popular middle-tier upgrade.
How Much Does It Cost to Upgrade on Air Canada?
Upgrade pricing is dynamic, but travelers can expect:
Upgrade TypeTypical Price Range (General Estimate)Economy ➜ Premium Economy$100 – $600+ CADEconomy ➜ Business Class$300 – $2,000+ CADPremium Economy ➜ Business$200 – $1,500+ CADLast-Minute Airport UpgradesCan be significantly lower
Factors affecting Air Canada flight upgrade price include:
How full the flight is (supply & demand)
Distance of route
Specific fare rules
Loyalty status priority
➡️ Booking off-peak routes usually yields cheaper upgrade offers.
Air Canada Upgrade Fee After Booking
Yes — passengers can upgrade any time before check-in (when availability exists):
Visit Manage My Booking
Choose "Upgrade"
Select your desired seat and pricing
Pay the difference or apply points
Early upgrades increase the likelihood of better pricing and premium seat selection.
Does Air Canada Upgrade for Free?
Yes — but only under special conditions:
✔️ Elite Status members — complimentary or prioritized upgrades when space allows ✔️ Operational upgrades — if Economy is overbooked and Premium seats remain open
However, regular passengers should not expect complimentary upgrades.
Best Tips to Save on Air Canada Upgrade Fees
Here’s how to improve your chance of a good price:
StrategyAdvantageCheck early and oftenBest seat selection and more optionsTry last-minute check-in upgradesPotentially lowest pricesTravel off-peak timesLower competition for upgradesConsider Premium Economy firstCheaper than Business upgradesJoin AeroplanUse points instead of cashRespond to bid invitation emailsControl what you spend
Elite members have top upgrade priority — another reason to stay loyal if you fly Air Canada regularly.
Example Upgrade Scenarios
ScenarioBest OptionLong-haul flight (Toronto – London)Bid or points upgrade to BusinessDomestic economy flightPaid Premium Economy upgrade for extra comfortFully booked Economy cabinCheck airport for operational upgrades
The earlier you plan, the better the outcome.
Air Canada Upgrade Options by Booking Channel
MethodWhat You Can DoOnline bookingAdd paid upgrade during checkoutAfter bookingManage My Booking — upgrade anytimeMobile appPoints upgrades and last-minute offersAirport counterFinal seat availability and discountsIn-flight (rare)Gate-controlled upgrades only
Being flexible with timing improves chances dramatically.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does it cost to upgrade on Air Canada?
There is no fixed amount — Air Canada upgrade charges depend on route, class, demand, and timing. Expect $100–$2,000+ CAD depending on the cabin upgrade.
Can I request an Air Canada last-minute upgrade at the airport?
Yes — if seats are available, discounted air canada last minute upgrade fee offers may appear at check-in kiosks or gate. They are not guaranteed.
Is Air Canada upgrade to Premium Economy worth it?
For long flights — absolutely. Added comfort and priority services make Premium Economy a solid value upgrade.
Can I upgrade after booking instead of during checkout?
Yes! Air Canada upgrade fee after booking can be paid through Manage My Booking or via Aeroplan points.
Does Air Canada upgrade for free?
Only in rare cases such as:
Elite frequent flyers
Operational seat reassignments
Free upgrades should be considered a bonus, not an expectation.
What is the best way to save on Air Canada seat upgrade price?
Try:
Bid upgrades
Points via Aeroplan
Last-minute upgrades if flexible
These methods often offer the lowest price.
Conclusion — Should You Upgrade with Air Canada?
An upgrade on Air Canada can dramatically improve your travel experience — especially on long-haul or overnight journeys where extra space and premium amenities truly matter.