What To Know
- These credits can be used towards future Air Canada flights and have a validity period of 24 months from the date of issuance.
- To request a credit for an eligible flight cancellation or change, passengers can contact Air Canada through the following channels.
- Can I get a credit for a non-refundable ticket.
When unexpected events disrupt travel plans, the question of whether or not airlines offer credits becomes crucial. Air Canada is no exception, and understanding its credit policy can help travelers navigate flight cancellations and changes effectively. This comprehensive guide explores the ins and outs of Air Canada’s credit issuance policy, providing answers to common questions and empowering travelers with the knowledge they need.
Understanding Air Canada’s Credit Policy
Air Canada offers credits for eligible flight cancellations and changes. The specific conditions for credit issuance vary depending on the fare class, ticket type, and reason for cancellation or change.
Types of Credits Issued
Air Canada typically issues two types of credits:
- Travel Credits: These credits can be used towards future Air Canada flights and have a validity period of 24 months from the date of issuance.
- Electronic Travel Certificates (ETCs): ETCs are similar to travel credits but are non-refundable and can only be used for flights operated by Air Canada. They have a validity period of 12 months.
Eligibility for Credits
Air Canada issues credits for the following situations:
- Flight cancellations due to weather, mechanical issues, or other operational reasons
- Flight changes initiated by the airline
- Involuntary downgrades
- Missed flights due to denied boarding or other airline-related issues
- Refundable tickets where the passenger cancels the flight voluntarily
How to Request a Credit
To request a credit for an eligible flight cancellation or change, passengers can contact Air Canada through the following channels:
- Online: Visit Air Canada’s website and navigate to the “My Bookings” section.
- Phone: Call Air Canada’s customer service line.
- Airport: Visit an Air Canada ticket counter.
Using Credits
Travel credits and ETCs can be used to book future flights on Air Canada. To redeem the credits, passengers can:
- Online: Enter the credit number during the online booking process.
- Phone: Call Air Canada’s customer service line and provide the credit number.
- Airport: Present the credit number at the Air Canada ticket counter.
Conditions for Using Credits
The following conditions apply to using Air Canada credits:
- Credits are non-transferable and can only be used by the passenger named on the original ticket.
- Credits are subject to availability and blackout dates.
- Additional fees and taxes may apply when redeeming credits.
- Credits cannot be used to purchase upgrades or ancillary services.
Exceptions and Special Cases
There are certain exceptions and special cases where Air Canada may not issue credits. These include:
- Non-refundable tickets
- Flights canceled due to passenger no-shows
- Flights canceled due to force majeure events (e.g., natural disasters)
The Bottom Line: Empowering Travelers with Credit Knowledge
Understanding Air Canada’s credit policy is essential for travelers seeking flexibility and protection in the face of unexpected travel disruptions. By knowing the types of credits issued, eligibility requirements, and redemption procedures, travelers can effectively manage their flight changes and cancellations while minimizing financial losses.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I get a credit for a non-refundable ticket?
A: No, Air Canada does not issue credits for non-refundable tickets.
Q: How long are travel credits valid for?
A: Travel credits are valid for 24 months from the date of issuance.
Q: Can I use credits to purchase upgrades?
A: No, credits cannot be used to purchase upgrades or ancillary services.
Q: What happens if I lose my credit number?
A: Contact Air Canada‘s customer service line to retrieve your credit number.
Q: Can I transfer my credits to another person?
A: No, credits are non-transferable and can only be used by the passenger named on the original ticket.
