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, generally more advantageous than the prices offered on the market for individual tickets.
However, although Air Canada is a popular airline among Canadian travelers, group tickets 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. Once the tickets are issued, the Cameleo team can, upon request, request seat selection based on remaining availability, in order to allow members of the same family to sit together during the flight. This service cannot be performed directly through the Air Canada website or app and must be carried out by a member of our team. Additional fees apply (see below).
- Seat selection fees: The exact cost of pre-selected seats varies depending on the flight and time of year. As a guideline, we estimate these fees to be approximately $100 per passenger, per flight segment. For example, for a family of four traveling outbound and return, seat selection fees could amount to approximately $800 in additional costs. This is therefore an important factor to consider when deciding whether to purchase a group ticket—even though its initial price is lower than market rates.
- Online check-in (24 hours prior to departure): Families travelling with an infant on their lap will not be able to check in online. There may also be instances where some passengers are unable to complete online check-in due to technical limitations related to group bookings. In these situations, check-in will need to be completed directly at the airport counter.
- Air Canada mobile app unavailable: Unlike individual airline tickets, group tickets do not include access to the Air Canada mobile app. Seating for children: When your ticket is issued, we will provide Air Canada with your family information, requesting that you be assigned seats close together. However, automatic seat assignment is not guaranteed and may not be perfect. Therefore, it is possible that some family members may not be seated together unless you make a paid seat selection, as described above. The final seat assignment remains beyond our control.
Is there an obligation to seat families together? Yes, but there are nuances. According to Canadian air transportation regulations, carriers are required to make reasonable efforts to seat children under 14 years of age next to one (1) parent or guardian. The permitted distance varies depending on the child's age:
- Under 5 years of age: the child must be seated directly next to a parent or guardian.
- 5 to 11 years old: the child must not be separated by more than one seat in the same row.
- 12 to 13 years old: the child must not be separated by more than one row.
This requirement 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 crucial to you and you are looking for the best price, a group ticket remains an excellent option.
These conditions may change without notice before your departure.
