It just got more expensive for Canadians flying with this major airline

Air Canada passengers now have to pay more to check their bags.

The airline recently hiked its checked baggage fee for customers flying on Economy Basic, Standard, or Flex fares purchased on or after April 13, 2026.

The first checked bag for Economy Basic and Standard passengers now costs $45 to $54, up from $35 to $42. The second checked bag has increased from $50 to $60 to $60 to $72.

Canadians who book Economy Flex get their first checked bag free, but now have to pay $60 to $72 for the second bag, up from $50 to $60.

The last time Air Canada increased its checked luggage fee was in 2024.

According to the carrier, the prices exclude taxes, which may apply based on your itinerary.

You can calculate how much you might have to pay using the Air Canada checked baggage calculator.

WestJet has followed Air Canada's suit, hiking its checked bag fees for the second time in less than a year.

Canadians will have to pay $10 more to check their first and second bags at airport check-in, with a $50 increase to excess, overweight, and oversized bag fees. Prepaid fees will increase by $5 for the first and second checked bags.

"These updates are due to industry revenue trends as well as impacts from current global conditions," stated the spokesperson.

Soaring fuel prices amid the United States-Iran war have shaken up travel for Canadians. Both WestJet and Air Canada announced a reduction of capacity in order to manage fuel costs. The carriers also added temporary fuel surcharges on certain flights earlier this month.

It's not all surcharges and fee hikes. Passengers are in for a shiny new cabin experience from Air Canada after it revealed its redesign.

The update includes first-of-its-kind seats in what the airline calls its next-generation “Glowing Hearted” cabins, which are inspired by the True North's natural landscapes. The redesign features calm tones, natural wood textures, and the signature maple leaf to welcome you aboard.

Check out what the new cabins will look like.