If you’re planning on travelling during the holiday season, there are insider tips from Air Canada’s Director of Global Concierge & Premium Experience, Tina Flammia, that can go a long way toward simplifying your travel experience.
We caught up with Flammia to uncover Air Canada’s top holiday travel tips, including the 1-2-3 step check-in process at Toronto Pearson International Airport and the best way to use the Air Canada (AC) mobile app to make your travel as seamless as possible. This ultimate travel sidekick transforms peak-season travel into an easy getaway.
From the moment you start packing your bags, the app and pro insider tips are all about adding confidence and ease through every step of your trip.
Picture this: seamless check-ins, a digital boarding pass with live updates, effortless navigation through crowded airports, and even the luxury of tracking every step of your checked bag’s journey if you’re travelling within Canada. It's like having a travel assistant tucked into your pocket, ensuring more comfort and convenience as you travel—even if little ones or a furry friend accompanies you. So, travel like an expert this festive season and beyond with Air Canada's insider tips and mobile app at your fingertips.
Pre-Airport Arrival
How can the Air Canada mobile app make travel preparation easier, even before I reach the airport?
Tina Flammia: The Air Canada (AC) app is a free and user-friendly travel companion. Customers who have downloaded and used the app rate it very positively, and attest to its simplification of the travel journey. Even before your airport arrival, you can leverage the app to check in up to 24 hours in advance, download your digital boarding pass, and plan your airport visit.
It makes it so simple to track flight times, gate changes and the status of your flight. You can also manage seat selection, meal preferences in select cabins on select routes, and any potential accessibility requirements, plus keep tabs on your Aeroplan points and AC wallet balance.
What essentials should be on my checklist for a seamless travel day?
Flammia: Beyond passports and visas, ensure you have the right travel documents for your destination. That includes making sure all IDs match the name on the ticket, including the documents of those travelling with you like children and pets. For our four-legged friends, register them with Air Canada and use an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. And resist the urge to overpack. Always double-check allowable baggage limits. Mindful packing helps avoid overweight fees and unnecessary repacking at the airport. The lighter your load, the easier your trip will be!
How does the AC app keep me organized on the day of my trip?
Flammia: On the day you’re flying, you can check the app for recommended arrival times, baggage drop cut-offs, the latest gate location and boarding details.
Be sure to follow recommended arrival times—with specific terminal information for Toronto Pearson—so you can arrive early and have an easy start to your journey.
At the Airport
Can the AC app assist me with navigating the airport and checking my luggage?
Flammia: Absolutely. Although often associated with pre-airport logistics, the app is designed for one-handed use, making it a handy tool while lugging bags through crowds.
You can use the app to navigate busy airports including Toronto Pearson International Airport, Vancouver International Airport and Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport using the app’s accessible airport maps feature.
If you’re travelling via Toronto with checked baggage, we have a straightforward 1-2-3-step check-in process to get you on your way with ease. Upon entering the terminal, simply follow the red signs to locate a kiosk to print your bag tag, marking Step 1. Print and attach your baggage tag(s). For Step 2, drop off your baggage in the designated area. After completing these steps, move on to Step 3, heading to security before making your way to the gate, allowing for a stress-free wait before your flight. And if you only have a carry-on, you can proceed directly to Step 3 which means heading to security after checking in through the app.
You can now also track your baggage and mobility aids—such as strollers and wheelchairs—for flights within Canada through the app. Once you drop off your bag(s), the app allows you to follow along at every step—from drop-off to pick-up carousel location.
Once You Reach Your Destination
What if plans change, and I need to modify or cancel my return flight?
Flammia: You can do it all right in the app. It provides real-time information, allowing you to modify or cancel flights and explore alternative options like a customer service agent would.
What additional features does the AC app offer for a smoother travel experience?
Flammia: There are so many exciting features in the app that can make the entire travel experience better, from reviewing menus and in-flight entertainment options to navigating an airport single-handedly with the maps feature. And, of course, the rollout of our new baggage tracking feature gives travellers added convenience and control over the journey.
Download the Air Canada mobile app today, especially if you plan to fly during the holidays, and experience the convenience firsthand. Happy and safe travels!