An Air Canada A330 aircraft. Travel Pulse
Air Canada has announced a special travel policy for the busy holiday season. The airline aims to ease travel stress at Canada’s busiest airports. The policy covers passengers travelling through Toronto or Montreal. It gives travellers more flexibility during peak holiday days.
Who the Policy Covers
The goodwill policy applies to many holiday travellers. It covers all trips connecting through Toronto Pearson Airport. It also covers connections through Montréal-Trudeau Airport. The airline applies the policy to tickets issued on or before December 18, 2025. Original travel dates must fall between December 19 and December 24, 2025.
Free Change to Non-Stop Flights
Passengers can make one free flight change under the policy. Travellers may switch from a connecting flight to a non-stop option. The change must happen at least two hours before departure. Air Canada only allows changes on its own operated flights. Passengers must keep the same travel cabin as booked.
How the Change Works
The airline designed the policy to reduce delays and missed connections. A traveller booked from Vancouver to Montreal via Toronto can switch. That passenger may choose a direct Vancouver to Montreal flight. The airline charges no change fees or extra costs. The new flight must fall within the allowed rebooking period.
Important Limits Apply
The policy does not allow all types of changes. Travellers cannot change their starting city or final destination. The airline only allows routing changes that remove the connection. Once the rebooking window closes, normal fare rules return. Standard fees and charges will then apply.
What Travellers Should Know
Air Canada urges passengers to act early. Holiday airports often face heavy crowds and delays. Switching to a direct flight may reduce travel risks. Fewer connections can mean fewer disruptions. The airline hopes this option improves passenger comfort.
Rules for Refunds and Tickets
Refund rules remain unchanged under the policy. Any refund follows the original ticket fare conditions. Passengers using loyalty reward tickets follow separate handling. Those bookings will be managed directly by the loyalty program. The airline does not include refunds as part of the goodwill offer.
Guidance for Agents and Support Staff
Air Canada also issued instructions for booking agents. Customer service teams must use a special processing code. The airline directs agents to use code “ACAHOL2025”. This code applies when processing eligible ticket exchanges. The code ensures smooth handling during the holiday rush.
Preparing for Holiday Travel
Air Canada expects high passenger volumes during the season. Toronto and Montreal rank among the busiest airports. Weather, crowds, and staffing pressures often affect schedules. The airline hopes the policy helps manage congestion. Travellers gain more control over their holiday plans.
Airline Focuses on Passenger Flexibility
The goodwill policy reflects a customer-focused approach. Air Canada wants to support smoother holiday travel. Offering free changes may reduce stress for many families. The airline encourages travellers to review options early. Planning ahead remains key during peak travel periods.
