Yes you read that correctly: Air Canada is ramping up their onboard service. Starting June 5, 2024, economy class travelers can enjoy complimentary premium snacks on all Air Canada flights, plus free beer and wine on flights within Canada and to the U.S.
We're going to call this the Porter effect – another airline is offering this and Air Canada has decided to join in (going the opposite route of a big Canadian airline that just cut back).
Air Canada has committed to this venture until the end of the year but here's hoping this stays around. Here's what you need to know about it.
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What is Air Canada offering?
Air Canada is increasing their level of on-board service in economy class until the end of 2024 (for now).
Travelers in economy will get free snacks on all Air Canada operated flights, including:
- Buttery herb and garlic pretzels from TWIGZ
- Célébration Cookie from Leclerc
They're introducing complimentary beer and wine on flights within Canada and to the U.S. This is already offered on international economy flights that leave North American airports but it's nice to see it on domestic flights, too.
Their selections include:
- Beer from Hop Valley, Creemore Springs, and Molson
- French wines from Paul Mas
Sadly, this will not be offered on flights to Mexico or the Caribbean at this time.
Air Canada is also offering a large selection of cocktails for $5 plus tax.
Read more: Air Canada press release
The Porter effect
There's a good chance that Air Canada wouldn’t be offering this if someone else in the marketplace wasn't already doing it.
So, let's give a hat tip to Porter! The airline has been doing this since its inception – and with its ongoing expansion across Canada and the U.S., we're going to assume that Air Canada has noticed this and decided to level up. (It may also explain why free drinks aren’t coming to sun destinations since Porter doesn't fly there.)
Elevate your service even more with an Aeroplan credit card
If you want even more when travelling with Air Canada, consider getting an Aeroplan credit card. These cards can offer priority services, free checked bags, and preferred pricing on reward flights.
Here are the benefits these cards offer:
And here's a listing of Aeroplan-branded credit cards:
Your thoughts on Air Canada's latest service changes
What are your thoughts on what Air Canada is doing?
It's nice to see an airline go in another direction – instead of taking away services, they're adding them. We're never going back to the days of full meals on flights but this is a nice touch.
And remember, you have several choices when it comes to flying. If the price is too much you can always turn to others and see what they want.
Leave us your thoughts in the comments below.
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