We want to clearly present the advantages and specific features of this type of ticket so you can make an informed choice.
The preferential fare is the main advantage of group tickets, which are generally more advantageous than the prices offered on the market for individual tickets.
However, although Air Transat is a popular airline among Quebec travellers, group tickets do have some technical drawbacks:
- Seat selection: Seat selection can only be done once all group tickets have been issued, which usually occurs about a month before departure. At that time, if you wish to choose your seat in advance, you will have to contact Air Transat directly by phone. This cannot be done through the Air Transat website or app. Additional fees apply and vary depending on the seat location.
- Long wait times on the phone: Air Transat customer service can experience significant wait times—sometimes more than two hours. Unfortunately, we are not authorized to select seats and make payments on behalf of passengers. With a bit of luck, and by calling in the morning, the wait time may be more reasonable.
- Online check-in (24 hours before the flight): Occasionally, online check-in may be unavailable for some passengers due to technical issues. If this occurs, you will need to complete your check-in at the airport counter. At check-in, you will be able to choose your seat free of charge from those still available.
- Seating for children: When your ticket is issued, we will send Air Transat your family information, requesting that you be assigned seats close to each other. However, automatic seat assignment is not guaranteed and may not be perfect. Therefore, it is possible that some members of the same family may not be seated together unless you make a paid seat selection, as described above. The final seat assignment remains beyond our control.
Isn't there an obligation to seat families together? Yes, but there are nuances. According to Canadian air transport regulations, carriers are required to make reasonable efforts to seat children under 14 years of age near one (1) parent or guardian. The permitted distance varies depending on the child's age:
- Under 5 years: the child must be seated directly next to the parent or guardian.
- 5 to 11 years: the child must not be separated by more than one seat in the same row.
- 12 to 13 years: the child must not be separated by more than one row.
This is an obligation of means and can, if necessary, be supplemented on board the aircraft with the assistance of the crew.
Conclusion: Is a group ticket a good option for me?
By informing you of these conditions in advance, we simply wish to highlight that a group ticket offers less flexibility than an individual ticket, in exchange for a lower price.
If the exact location of your seat is not a priority and you are looking for the best price, a group ticket remains an excellent option.
These conditions may change without notice before your departure.
