Air Canada Upgrade – How to Upgrade Flight Seat

Are you planning a trip and looking to upgrade an Air Canada flight? The airline offers several options for passengers looking to enhance their travel experience. This blog post takes a closer look at Air Canada upgrade options, such as bidding on upgrades, using Aeroplan points or Star Alliance miles, and purchasing upgrades outright. 

You’ll also learn about the benefits of each option so that you can make an informed decision about which Air Canada upgrade option is right for you. 

Air Canada Seat Upgrade Methods

There are several ways to get a seat upgrade on Air Canada:

1. Air Canada bid upgrade
   (with points, miles, or card)
2. Air Canada eUpgrade credits
3. Last minute upgrade purchase

Since the availability of upgrades can be limited, it’s best to explore your options early and consider factors like your budget and travel itinerary when deciding which method to use. eUpgrades provide maximum availability but are accessible only to Elite Aeroplan members. However, if you don’t have any eUpgrades, you can eUpgrade as a Travel Companion or an eUpgrade Nominee of someone who has eUpgrades.

Upgrading with Air Canada Bid Upgrade Using Points, Miles, or Card

If you’re looking to bid for an upgrade on Air Canada, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure you have a reservation with Air Canada or Air Rouge (or bears an Air Canada Express banner) and that your ticket is eligible for an upgrade to a higher travel class (or log in to your account).

How Air Canada bid upgrade system works?

Once you’ve confirmed that you’re eligible, you can bid for an upgrade on Air Canada online through Air Canada Bid Upgrade page. If your bid gets accepted, you will be notified by email about 48 hours before departure. If you booked your ticket directly from Air Canada’s website, app, or ticketing office, you may receive an email inviting you to place a bid for your flight through a link provided in the email. 

To place a bid for an upgrade on Air Canada, follow the steps below: 

• Make an upgrade offer up to 48 hours before your flight by filling in your booking details. 
• Change or cancel your offer if it hasn’t already been accepted. 
• You’ll be informed by email about 48 hours before departure whether your offer is accepted.
• If your bid is accepted:
  • Your card (or frequent flyer account) will be charged for the amount (or Aeroplan points/Star Alliance miles) bid by you. 
  • Your upgrade status will show up on your boarding pass.
• If your bid is not accepted:
  • You won’t be charged for the bid. 
  • You’ll get to keep your original seat. 

Note. Aside from bidding for an upgrade, you can also purchase an Instant Upgrade for select flights from 10 – 3 days before departure.

Air Canada Upgrade Tips

• The upgrade offer service is only available online—you cannot do it by phone.
• To increase your chances of being upgraded, submit the highest offer price/points you’re willing to pay.
• Upgrade offers are on a per-passenger basis.
• You must pay for the upgrade through one transaction—by credit card or your Aeroplan/Star Alliance account (and not by both).
• The offer window closes 48 hours before flight departure. 
• You can revise or cancel your offer till 48 hours before departure.  
• Successful upgrades cannot be transferred or refunded, and apply only to the flight and date indicated. 
• If you cancel your ticket or change your flight, the upgrade amount paid by you will be forfeited.
• Before submitting your offer, ensure that you have entered the correct information and contact details and reviewed the terms and conditions. 
• Upgrade offers are accepted per flight segment only.
• To check the status of your offer, click on the link provided in your email and select your flight.
• If your offer is successful, the fare conditions of your original ticket will apply for flight cancellations, flight changes, change fees, the rules relating to the accrual of frequent flyer points, and the conditions of minimum and maximum stays. All other conditions will apply as per your upgraded fare class.
• If your offer is unsuccessful, you cannot make a new offer. That’s why it’s important to place your best offer initially to improve the chances of your offer being accepted. 
• You can cancel or modify/change your upgrade offer up to 48 hours before departure (if it hasn’t already been accepted by Air Canada) by clicking on the Cancel or Modify link in the Upgrade Requested email you would have received after submitting your offer or through the Air Canada Bid Upgrade page by entering your booking reference number and last name. 

Although bidding for an upgrade does not guarantee that you’ll receive one, it can be a great way to increase your chances of grabbing a better seat at a more affordable price. 

How to apply for an upgrade on Air Canada?

You can apply for an upgrade in 2 ways:

1. Request an upgrade by placing an upgrade bid on the Air Canada Bid Upgrade page. If your bid is successful, Air Canada will notify you by email about 48 hours before departure.
2. Purchase an Instant Upgrade (for select flights only) to a higher travel class for a reasonable fee. You will be notified within 2 hours of your request. This option is available for select flights from 10 – 3 days before departure. If both (bid and instant upgrade) options are available, you can choose only one option. 

Note. If you booked your ticket directly through Air Canada’s website, mobile website, or Reservations Office and chose to receive communications from the airline, you may be invited 8 days before departure by email to make an offer. If your flight offers Instant Upgrades, the option will also be provided in the email. 

About Air Canada instant upgrade service. Air Canada instant upgrade service allows you to upgrade to a higher travel class for a fee for select flights. The instant upgrade service is available from 3 to 10 days before departure. If your flight offers instant upgrades, you will be provided the option by email.  Instant upgrades are subject to availability and are typically offered on a first-come, first-served basis. While there is an additional fee for this service, many passengers find it to be a worthwhile investment in their travel experience.

Upgrading with Air Canada e Upgrade Credits

If you’re an Aeroplan Elite status member, you can upgrade to a Premium Economy or Business Class cabin with Air Canada eUpgrade Credits. This applies to all flights operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Express, and Air Canada Rouge and includes flights booked with points.

First, make sure you have enough eUpgrade Credits in your account to cover the upgrade you want to make. You can check your balance by logging into your Aeroplan account. Once you have confirmed that you have enough credits, go to the Air Canada website or mobile app and select the flight you want to upgrade. When upgrading, you will be given the option to apply your eUpgrade Credits toward an upgrade. If there is availability on the desired flight, your upgrade will be processed immediately. If not, you can join the waitlist and receive an automatic notification if a seat becomes available. So next time you’re planning a trip with Air Canada, consider using your eUpgrade Credits to enhance your travel experience.

How to use eUpgrades on Air Canada

You can request an upgrade as an Elite status member of Aeroplan for a full one-way trip or certain flight segments as follows:

1. Log in to your eUpgrade account.
2. Retrieve your flight booking as follows:
   1. Enter your booking reference number 
   2. Enter your last name
3. Go through the upgrade options offered, credits required, and the add-on fee (if it applies)
4. Make a selection
5. If an add-on fee applies, pay it and proceed
6. A confirmation email will be sent to you stating that your request has been received 
7. Your upgrade will be confirmed (if space is available) after your clearance window opens
8. Your eUpgrade credits will be automatically removed from your account

You can also request an upgrade when checking in online, through your smartphone, at a self-service kiosk or airport check-in desk, or the departure gate on the day of travel. Although you can request an upgrade at any time, the clearance window for confirmation will be as shown in the table below:

eUpgrade Requirements

• The expiry date for eUpgrade credits depends on when you earned the credits. If you earned your eUpgrade credits: 

• From January 1—June 30, the credits can be used till January 16 of the next year. 
• From July 1 and December, the credits can be used till January 16 of the following year.

• eUpgrade credits must be valid on the date of travel, so be sure to use the ones with shorter validity first. 
• The eUpgrade credits required for an upgrade will depend on:
  • The fare purchased by you 
  • Your flight’s destination
  • The flight distance
  • The cabin class you’re upgrading to

eUpgrades Tips 

• Check this guide to figure out how many eUpgrade credits you will need for each route (incl. the clearance window).
• You can use your eUpgrade credits to upgrade a travel companion.
  • If your travel companion is travelling with you on the same reservation, you can request an upgrade for yourself and your travel companion the same way as you would request yours.
  • If your travel companion is travelling on a different reservation but on the same flight as yours, you must request the upgrade with Air Canada’s staff on the day of travel at the airport. 
• If you’re a top-tier super elite member, you can also:
  • Purchase Flight Passes if you run out of eUpgrade credits or need more. 
  • Use the eUpgrade Nominees service to upgrade any Aeroplan member.
• In some cases, you may be asked to pay an eUpgrade add-on fee.
• If your eUpgrade request is waitlisted, you cancel your request by contacting Air Canada Reservations, your travel agent, or through your eUpgrade account.
• If your eUpgrade request is confirmed, you can cancel your request by calling Air Canada Reservations or your travel agent. However, if the Economy/Premium Economy booking class originally purchased by you is no longer available, you may have to pay the fare difference. 
• If your eUpgrade request isn’t cleared, the credits will be returned to your account within 72 hours after your last flight lands. If the credits aren’t returned to your account after 72 hours, you must report this to Air Canada through this online form.
• Before requesting an eUpgrade, do check out Air Canada eUpgrade policy.

Air Canada Last Minute Upgrade Purchase

Air Canada Last Minute Upgrade Purchase is a great way for you to enjoy the perks of Business or Premium Economy Class without having to pay full price. This program allows you to upgrade your seat at the last minute, either at check-in or at the gate, in most cases without having to pay the full price of a regular upgrade. The program is particularly useful for those who may have missed out on an upgrade earlier or who simply want to treat themselves to a little extra comfort on their flight. 

Air Canada Last Minute Upgrade Purchase option may be offered to you when you check in online, through your mobile device, or through a self-service check-in kiosk.

How to Purchase a Last Minute Upgrade on Air Canada

You can make a Last Minute Upgrade purchase on Air Canada:

• During web/mobile check-in from 24 hours before departure to:
  • At least 45 minutes before departure for domestic Canada flights 
  • At least 60 minutes before departure for:
    • Any flight between Canada and the United States.
    • Remaining international flights departing from Canada.
• At a self-service kiosk from 12 hours before departure to:
  • At least 45 minutes before departure for domestic Canada flights 
  • At least 60 minutes before departure for:
    • Any flight between Canada and the United States.
    • Remaining international flights departing from Canada.

Things to Remember About Last Minute Upgrade Purchases

• All Last Minute Upgrades are subject to seat availability.
• Prices will depend on the flight segment.
• Last Minute Upgrades cannot be purchased for:
  • Codeshare flights and flights operated by other airlines.
  • Multiple-passenger bookings if one of the passengers doesn’t want to purchase an upgrade. 
  • Multiple-passenger bookings if any passenger’s booking is unconfirmed in a Premium Economy or Business Class cabin.
  • Basic fare bookings.

For more information, refer to Air Canada Last Minute Upgrade terms and conditions.

How Much Does Air Canada Last Minute Upgrade Cost?

A Last Minute Upgrade Purchase for a one-way flight can typically cost as follows:

Air Canada Upgrade Chart

Air Canada upgrade chart outlines the different options available to passengers who wish to upgrade their flight experience. The chart typically includes information about the various classes of service offered, such as Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class, and First Class. It also includes details on how many points or miles are required for each level of upgrade, as well as any additional fees or restrictions that may apply.

Passengers who have accumulated enough frequent flyer miles or credit card points can use them to upgrade their seats to a higher class of service. Upgrading can offer several benefits, such as more legroom, better seats, better food and beverage options, access to premium lounges, priority check-in and boarding, more baggage allowance, etc.

The Air Canada upgrade chart is an important tool for passengers who want to make the most of their travel experience. By understanding the different options available and the requirements for upgrading, passengers can choose the option that best fits their needs and budget.

Air Canada also offers complimentary upgrades to Elite status members based on availability and other factors. If you’re looking to enhance your travel experience with Air Canada, be sure to check out their upgrade chart and explore all the options available to you.

How to Increase Your Chances of an Upgrade with Air Canada?

• If you’re upgrading with Air Canada Aeroplan Elite status
  • Achieve Air Canada Elite status to earn eUpgrade credits and purchasing upgradeable tickets on eligible fares. The cost of eUpgrade will depend on your route, fare class, membership status, and desired upgrade.
  • Buy a ticket with a higher fare so that you require fewer upgrade credits.
  • Book your flight outright with Aeroplan points.
  • Search for availability of upgrades as soon as you know your travel plan (i.e., your flight dates and flights).
  • Leverage your Aeroplan status to choose Preferred Seating, which is not an upgrade per se but can help make your flight more comfortable.
  • Leverage your Elite status to:
    • Upgrade your travel companions with eUpgrade credits on a flight you’re taking.
    • Upgrade another Aeroplan member on any flight they’re taking using Air Canada eUpgrade Nominees service. 
• If you’re upgrading without Air Canada Aeroplan status
  • Purchase a ticket that qualifies for an upgrade:
    • With Aeroplan points and make an upgrade bid with Aeroplan points.
    • With Star Alliance miles and upgrade with miles.
  • Purchase premium fares with heavy discounts to save your points/miles. 
  • Take advantage of last-minute upgrades by purchasing a low-cost upgraded fare at the airport.

Air Canada Upgrade to Business Class

Air Canada Business Class upgrades are subject to availability and may not be available on every flight. It’s always best to check with Air Canada directly for more information on how to upgrade and what options are available for your specific flight.

How to get upgraded to Business Class on Air Canada

You can get upgraded to Business Class on Air Canada by bidding for it (with miles/points or card), or using your eUpgrade credits if you happen to be an elite status member, or by purchasing a last minute upgrade at the airport (check-in or gate), subject to availability.

Air Canada Business Class upgrade cost

The cost of upgrading to Air Canada Business Class depends on many factors, such as the route, booking class, and availability. It can be a few hundred dollars or more, depending on these factors. If you are interested in upgrading your Air Canada flight to Business Class, it is best to contact the airline directly or speak with a travel agent who can provide more information on pricing and availability.

How many points to upgrade to Business Class on Air Canada

To upgrade to Business Class on Air Canada, the number of points can range from several thousand to tens of thousands depending on the specific flight and fare class. To determine the exact number of points required for an eUpgrade to Business Class if you’re an Elite status member, refer to this eUpgrades pdf.

Free Upgrade Tricks for Air Canada

If you’re looking to score a free upgrade on Air Canada, there are a few things you can try. First, consider signing up for Air Canada’s loyalty program, Aeroplan. Members of the program (especially Elite status members) receive exclusive offers and upgrades, so it’s definitely worth considering if you’re a frequent flyer. 

Another option is to simply ask at the check-in counter or gate if there are any available upgrades. You may get lucky and be offered an upgrade for free if there are unsold seats in a higher-class cabin. Finally, it never hurts to dress nicely and be polite to the airline staff – they may take notice and offer you an upgrade as a gesture of goodwill. While there’s no guaranteed way to snag a free upgrade on Air Canada, these tips can increase your chances of success.

Air Canada Upgrade Request

You can place an upgrade request with Air Canada with eUpgrade Credits if you’re an Elite status member, by bidding for an upgrade (with your Aeroplan points, air miles, or by credit card), or by making a last minute purchase at check-in or the gate, subject to seat availability.

Air Canada Upgrade to Premium Economy

If you’re looking to upgrade to Air Canada Premium Economy, there are a few options available to you. One option is to purchase an upgrade directly through the Air Canada website or mobile app. Another option is to use your Aeroplan points, other frequent flyer miles, or credit card to upgrade your seat. Keep in mind that availability for upgrades can vary depending on the flight, so it’s best to check early and often. Additionally, if you have elite status with Air Canada or a partner airline, you can use your eUpgrade Credits to upgrade to a higher class. As an elite status member, you may also be eligible for complimentary or discounted upgrades. 

How much to upgrade to Premium Economy on Air Canada

The cost of upgrading to Premium Economy on Air Canada will depend on your flight’s route, dates of travel, and availability. Generally, the cost can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars per passenger. It is best to check with Air Canada directly or through their website for specific pricing information and to see if any promotions or discounts are available. 

Whatever your method of upgrading may be, Air Canada Premium Economy offers a more comfortable and spacious experience with extra legroom, priority boarding, and enhanced meal options. It’s definitely worth considering for your next flight!

Air Canada First Class Upgrade

If you’re looking to upgrade to Air Canada First Class, there are a few options available. The first is to bid for an upgrade through Air Canada bidding system (with cash, miles, or points). If your bid is accepted, you’ll be upgraded to First Class. The second option is to upgrade with your existing eUpgrade credits if you’re an Elite status member. The third option is to purchase an upgrade online, by phone, or at the airport. Remember, all upgrades are subject to availability and not guaranteed.

Air Canada First Class upgrade cost will depend on many factors, such as your travel dates, destination, and availability. If you’re interested in upgrading to First Class for your next flight with Air Canada, be sure to contact the customer service team for more information on pricing and availability.

Frequently Asked Questions on Air Canada Upgrade

Air Canada offers a variety of upgrade options for its passengers, from purchasing upgrades with Aeroplan points to bidding for upgrades through the airline’s upgrade auction program. With so many options available, it’s not surprising that passengers may have questions about how the upgrade process works. In the section below, we’ll provide answers to some of the most common questions about Air Canada upgrades.