Over the past decade, I’ve traveled extensively with my boys. You might have seen my previous posts about airplane activities or snack packing lists. We’re excited that travel is back on track, and I recently had the chance to experience all of Air Canada’s service classes with my 8-year-old in tow! Instead of merely sharing my experiences, I will illustrate what it’s really like to fly with Air Canada when traveling as a family. Below, you’ll find photos capturing our adventures in Signature Class, Premium Economy Class, and Economy Class.
It’s essential to keep in mind that domestic travel within Canada (and North America) differs significantly from international flights. In Economy Class, don’t expect complimentary meals or blankets. Food is generally available for purchase, and blankets and pillows are not often provided. However, there are certain benefits for families flying with Air Canada. One notable perk is free seat selection. Due to Canadian regulations, children must sit alongside a parent. If you don’t pay for seat selection, you will typically be allocated seats together, often after completing your purchase or the following day.
Arrival at the Airport
Dedicated Check-In:
Some airports have dedicated family check-in for Air Canada flights. While Vancouver does have this service, it was closed when we checked in. We hope these services will soon be fully operational again, as anyone with children knows that dealing with luggage and waiting in slow-moving lines can be challenging.
Pre-Boarding:
Families traveling with children under 6 are permitted to pre-board with Air Canada. This is especially beneficial for those with a car seat, as it allows you to get settled without the rush. Personally, I tend to board last (unless time is running short) to minimize the time the kids spend sitting before takeoff. Regardless of your choice, I’ve consistently found Air Canada’s staff to be friendly and accommodating towards families.
Air Canada Goodie Bag:
Typically, Air Canada provides goodie bags for kids. One of my favorites from these bags is the over-the-ear headphones, as I find ear buds nearly impossible for kids under 10; they often slip out and frustrate them. Recent goodie bags also included coloring supplies and a tic-tac-toe game.
Air Canada Signature Class with Kids
Air Canada’s First Class cabin is referred to as “Signature Class,” featuring popular lay-flat seats. I first flew Signature Class a couple of years ago, and you can read my review for more details. It’s often called First Class or Business Class by passengers, as it represents Air Canada’s highest level of service. I mention this because those seeking information may search for Air Canada business class or Air Canada first class with kids, and I want to ensure I provide the information they need!
The Family Setup in Signature Class is Challenging
I find that Air Canada’s Signature Class configuration is primarily designed for solo travelers. While I appreciate the privacy, it can be impractical even for couples, as you can’t easily converse without leaving your seat. However, the level of comfort, especially on overnight flights, is exceptional.
Things can get complicated when traveling with young kids. My boys have very different personalities. Mattias is independent and content to be on his own, while Markus prefers close contact and dislikes being alone. Now that he’s 8 and I had the chance to check out Signature Class, I would absolutely do it again. I did get up to walk over to his side about a dozen times, but when he was only 5, that would have been nearly impossible. Younger than that, it wouldn’t have worked at all; he wouldn’t have stayed in his seat. On the other hand, Mattias at 5 would have easily managed on his own.
Every child is different, which is why I mention my two boys. If you have a more cuddly child like Markus or one who prefers to chat frequently, consider Premium Economy for family travel.
If you’re looking for seat configurations in Air Canada pods when traveling with kids, here are some helpful tips:
Option #1: Middle Seats in the Same Row: Opt for seats in the middle section of the plane. This allows you to easily reach your children over the small partition. However, you’ll be unable to assist with seatbelts or buttons and would need to navigate around the cabin to be beside them.
Option #2: Middle and Window Seats: With my arrangement, the adjacent window seat was a step behind my own, so I could see the passenger seated there. If you position yourself in the middle seat with your child in the window seat just behind you, help is just a step away. The seat in front of the middle isn’t as practical since you can’t see into the pod.
Option #3: One Middle Seat Behind the Other: This configuration keeps you just a step away from your child. You can stand up and easily be next to them. Though you can’t see them while seated, it remains one of the closest seating arrangements. In the previous option, at least you can glance back and see your child if you look behind you.
Air Canada Premium Economy with Kids
After discussing the highlights and drawbacks of Air Canada’s Signature Class for families, you’ll be pleased to hear that Premium Economy offers a vastly different experience than Economy Class. The term “premium economy” can be somewhat misleading since I often associate it with airlines lacking an impressive first class. However, Air Canada’s Premium Economy provides many of the amenities found in Signature Class, minus the pods and upscale headphones. If you’re traveling with kids and need extra space, Premium Economy is an excellent option. It also offers upgraded service, enhanced meal choices, glassware (I love the Air Canada glasses!), and nicely plated meals instead of plastic trays.
Premium Economy has several advantages for families. For starters, seats are arranged in pairs. While I was seated in front of Markus, the arrangement worked for us as I could easily reach back and touch him. Side-by-side seating would be even more convenient, but this configuration works nicely too. These seats also recline significantly, making it easier for kids to relax and rest compared to standard Economy Class, and the headrests are completely adjustable.
Air Canada Economy Class with Kids
There’s nothing inherently wrong with Economy Class, and to be honest, that’s how we typically travel. I try to secure window seats whenever possible, allowing the kids to lean against the wall, although they do struggle to get comfortable with the small pillows.
I avoid bulkhead rows when traveling with kids because the armrests in those sections hold the tray tables, so they don’t lift up. We always raise the armrests to snuggle in for added comfort. While bulkheads provide more legroom, kids usually don’t need that extra space, and managing the tray tables can be cumbersome.
Air Canada Kids Meal
Air Canada allows you to pre-order a kid’s meal for your flight. This must be done in advance and cannot be selected at check-in. There are several benefits to ordering a kid’s meal on Air Canada. One major advantage is that special meals are served first. While this often means the kids have their meals in front of them for longer, it can serve as a useful distraction.
Be aware that if you’re flying on a code-share flight (purchasing your ticket from Air Canada but traveling on another airline, such as British Airways or Lufthansa), your meal choice may not be transferred to that airline’s system. However, I’ve found you can use your booking number on their website to select your special meal or contact Air Canada reservations to make a note on your booking.
Typically, kid’s meals include more child-friendly options, like pasta with tomato sauce. Despite this, my kids often prefer snacking on the bread roll or sometimes even swapping with me if I have a more appealing adult meal. Anyone who frequently flies knows that pasta is often the safest choice!
Air Canada has a dedicated section on their website for kids’ meals, which you can check out for more details.
More About Air Canada
Air Canada is Canada’s largest domestic carrier and ranks among the top 20 airlines in the world. As of summer 2022, Air Canada has expanded its summer schedule, resuming 34 routes to Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The airline’s international network spans 67 airports from its hubs in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, along with Calgary and Halifax, totaling 96 routes. As travel continues to return to full capacity, I’m confident Air Canada will keep adding routes back to its schedule!
Image Credits:
Header photo courtesy of Air Canada
Lindsay Nieminen, a Vancouver native, shares her love of travel on this website. She is passionate about encouraging others not to wait to explore the world simply because they have young children or are single parents. Her aim is to inspire families to seek adventure, whether at home or abroad, by providing information on how virtually anywhere can be a destination to discover together.
