Some delays are within an airline's control, whereas others, like those caused by severe weather or airport and air traffic disruptions, are simply out of our hands. Whatever the reason for the delay, Air Canada will be there to assist you.

What will Air Canada do in the event of an extended delay?

In the case of an extended delay to an Air Canada or Jazz flight* which is expected to last:

• 2 hours or more:
  • You may change your reservation at no cost to travel within 7 days of your original travel date and you can also change your return to match the same length of stay if necessary.
  • You may retain the unused portion of your ticket and use it toward future travel on Air Canada.
  • You may request a refund for the unused portion of your ticket.
• 4 hours or more:
  • When the delay is caused by circumstances within Air Canada's control, an Air Canada airport agent will offer you a voucher for use at an airport restaurant or for our Onboard Café service.
• 8 hours or more:
  • For circumstances within Air Canada's control - If your flight has been rescheduled to depart the next day, you may be entitled to meal vouchers, hotel accommodation and transportation to and from the airport. Ask an Air Canada airport agent for assistance.
  • For circumstances outside Air Canada's control - If your flight has been rescheduled to depart the next day, Air Canada representatives will provide you with hotel contact information where you can obtain valued customer rates.

In the event of an extended delay caused by a major disruption (e.g. a travel advisory has been issued for your departure/arrival city), we will offer you the option of travelling by Via Rail when a train segment matching your itinerary is available, as per the Air Canada/VIA Rail reprotection agreement.

* If you're travelling on a codeshare flight, operated by another airline, we recommend that you contact the carrier directly, as it may be in a better position to make the appropriate accommodation arrangements.

My flight is delayed. What can I do on my end?

If the Air Canada or Jazz flight* you're travelling on is delayed, and you want to find another flight or cancel your remaining flight(s), you can:

• Call Air Canada Reservations for assistance in rebooking your cancelled flight or cancelling the remainder of your itinerary.
• Speak to an Air Canada airport agent if you’re already at the airport.

And remember that, if you purchased On My Way™ travel assistance for the delayed flight, you can call the On My Way™ desk at the number indicated on your Itinerary/Receipt to benefit from the extra coverage provided by the On My Way™ service.

* If you're travelling on a codeshare flight, operated by another airline, we recommend that you contact the carrier directly, as it may be in a better position to make the appropriate accommodation arrangements.
** View Refund options.

If you've already boarded the plane and it is still at the gate:

• In the case of delays of more than 60 minutes on the aircraft, when it is deemed safe, practical and legal, we will provide beverages and food. You'll also be free to use your cell phone or computer, and move around the cabin.
• If the delay exceeds 90 minutes and circumstances permit, you'll be given the option of disembarking from the aircraft until it is time to depart.
• Our in-flight entertainment system is available to you right away so you can start watching your favourite movie or access one of our many other on-board entertainment features.

What services does Air Canada provide to my child who is travelling alone to ensure his or her safety when a flight is delayed?

With the Unaccompanied Minor service, parents or guardians are asked to remain at the airport until their child's flight has departed. If the flight is delayed and your child has already boarded the plane, an agent will ensure that your child is well taken care of during the delay.

Youths travelling alone (ages 12 to 17), for whom the parent or guardian has not requested the Unaccompanied Minor service, will be taken care of by our agents. We will also arrange for accommodations, meals and transportation if needed.

I still have questions
If you still have questions or concerns about a delayed or cancelled flight, please contact Air Canada Reservations.