Air Canada said that, beginning on January 3,

On Wednesday, Air Canada said that, beginning on January 3, it will begin charging for larger carry-on baggage for travellers who choose to use its cheapest basic rate on North American routes. 


Under the new conditions, passengers will now be responsible for paying for bulkier things like duffel bags, rollerboards, or large backpacks. For the first bag, the carrier will charge C$35, and for the second, C$50. Similar rules have been put in place by United Airlines, which mandates that travellers in basic economy pay at least $35 for carry-on luggage. Every passenger is still permitted to bring a laptop bag or other small personal object that fits beneath the seat. 

Citing increased maintenance and labour contract expenses, airlines have raised checked baggage fees for flights across North America. Additionally, Air Canada will charge passengers on basic fares extra if they want to switch seats from the one they were given when they checked in. For customers travelling internationally on its comfort economy rate, the Montreal-based flag carrier said that it will increase the allowed amount of checked baggage. Passengers will now be able to check two bags for free. (In Bengaluru, Utkarsh Shetti and Kannaki Deka reported; Vijay Kishore and Tasim Zahid edited.)