|
PAGE:
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
6 |
7 |
8 | |
Rating : 1.0 (very poor) to 5.0 (excellent) |
Air Canada review - by K Jolley
3 May 2007 Customer Trip Rating : 
Over 6 flights during a round trip from Japan to the caribbean, I met
with staff who openly complained about their company, was without volume
for the inflight entertainment on 2 of the flights, for the 11 hour
flight returning to Japan the middle of the plane was without a working
screen to view any entertainment, staff regularly ignored the service
bell due to the fact that on occasion passengers accidentally activate
the bell. On the plus side the seats were a fair size, however the
planes were old. The check in service at all airports was also very
quick and efficient.
Air Canada review - by Mike Davies
27 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating : 
YVR-SFO in new Embraer 175. Very clean and spacious aircraft, excellent
avod touchscreen. Seats comfortable in economy and service was a great
improvement for Air Canada. It seems they are trying very hard to pull
themselves up by the boot straps.
Air Canada review - by M McCombie
26 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating : 
Heathrow to Toronto - no seat-back tray tables on at least seven seats.
Cabin crew great - offering to move us, but as the flight was full -
limited choice of alternative seats. The alternatives were where AC
staff were sitting - so AC staff would be moved to seats without tray-
tables! Cabin staff explained they'd asked gate staff at LHR not to
allocate those seats; gate staff apparently advised cabin staff that
they'd advised affected pax and pax were "happy" with no tray-tables!
Toronto to Vancouver - gent next to me was asked to move seats as we
were approaching YVR, to allow another gent to take his seat, and he
could move to a crew jump-seat. First chap's seat (at emergency exit)
had "collapsed", so couldn't be used. Swap around of seats required as
chap seated at exit was not the slimmest character around, presumably a
more petite stature is preferable for jump-seat.
Air Canada review - by M Kroeker
25 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
YWG-YXE-YYC return to YWG. Outbound was a tired CRJ, flight attendants
very pleasant, decor was old, seats torn and uncomfortable. Upon arrival
waiting to collect my bags, was told by Air Canada baggage agent that my
bags were checked straight through to Calgary. Apparently if you have 2
flights in the system on the same day they check them straight through
to final destination. Luckily YXE being very small, their very helpful
AC gate agent found the bag I needed and brought it out to me. Flight to
YYC later that day was uneventful, again on a newer CRJ. Returning to
Winnipeg 3 days later on a newer CRJ-70. Very clean aircraft with
refurbished interior and IFE in seat. Flight attendants very helpful and
pleasant. Overall Air Canada has been working hard to improve it's fleet
and customer service. Travelling for business is a pleasure on Air
Canada.
Air Canada review - by Alan Wan
24 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
LHR-YVR-LAS-YYZ-LHR. Economy on a redemption ticket from SIA. The LHR-
YVR sector was on a A330-300 which was roomy, the FA were extremely
pleasent, the food fine including free alcohol throughout the only minus
point was general view IFE. YVR-LAS-YYZ was on refurbished A320 which
had seatback AVOD IFE's very impressive for a North American flight.
FA's were extremely friendly, there was quite a choice of food available
for sale but we brought our own. YYZ-LHR was on a refurbished 767-300
which has seatback AVOD IFE which had the same choice as films as the
USA/Canada flights, although not as good as SIA's Krisworld it certainly
beats UA across the Atlantic which we use just as often as Air Canada.
I've always found Air Canada great but the IFE let it down but they've
really sorted it and I thinks its the best transatlantic airline I've
flown with in the past few years. The food is never going to compete
with the Asian carriers so I'll give them 4 stars.
Air Canada review - by Ivan Ilieff
24 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
YYZ-LAX Economy. The Total Makeover A320 was quite clean, but color
scheme rather bland. The seats were OK, but without an adjustable
headrest and no side support on the headrest. Pillows and blankets were
available for a charge (??!! - what is next - if you want to sit down
you pay, otherwise we put you in the cargo hold). Food for purchase -
rather good selection of sandwiches and snacks. Much better than the US
alternatives. Great IFE - touch-screen navigation, good choice of
movies, audio, and games on demand. Overall good experience, the only
complaint was really the seat comfort and the rather disappointing look
of the widely advertised Total Makeover cabin. It looks like an old
Lufthansa cabin from the 80's.
Air Canada review - by Helen Thomas
20 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
LHR-YYZ-LHR return. Oh dear! For a country's national airline, quite a
disappointment. Boeing 767-300 both ways, very old and grimy. Seats
ripped and torn, toilets filthy, floor carpets torn and plane on
outbound journey smelt of rotting food. Crew did the best they could and
were courteous and worked hard. IFE worked when it felt like it. Very
poor pitch size (economy ), my husband is only 5'8" but he had seat
pressed against his knees. Would not recommend until they Air Canada
spend more money to get their fleet updated.!!
Air Canada review - by Jim Hooper
20 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
LHR-YYZ-LHR both sectors on A340-300s. Comfortable seat pitch for such an old plane. Both flights
were incredibly dull due to the appalling lack of IFE. It was like going back 10 years with one
large screen at the front and 3-4 drop down TV screens in each section of the cabin. The two movie
choices were also rather dated. We left LHR nearly 2 hours late but made up over an hour during
flight to YYZ. Again, late leaving YYZ but got back to UK in record time, 6h40mins! I understand
that AC will replace these old birds with new B777s. I cant wait! I am a fan of AC, the FA's are
always polite and hard working but they really need to update the cabins on these high frequency
routes.
Air Canada review - by M Graham
20 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
LHR to YUL return in economy. The flight was on time, FAs nice and did
an excellent job on return flight which was full and lots of families
with babies. The leg room is generous. Food fine, no complaints. All in
all a very pleasant flight both ways. I would chose AC over BA for the
leg room and the flight timings. One small niggle, do the cockpit crew
ever talk to the passengers any more!
Air Canada review - by Ed Rochfort
20 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
Toronto to Edmonton. The inflight service was good but when we arrived
at our destination we waited for approximately 75 minutes for our bags
to arrive on the baggage carrousel. There was no Air Canada Baggage
Agent to apologize or even explain the reason for the unbelievable
delay. The majority of people around me were simply fuming that they had
to wait so long for their baggage. Several people mentioned that this
just reinforced their belief that this airline's customer service is
practically non-existant.
Air Canada review - by Len Perry
12 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating : n/a
YHZ LHR in J. The flight started out almost 2 hours late. I had a 2
hour transit time in LHR before my next flight so this late start almost
eliminated that. The J cabin is dated and row 6 has limited recline,
really unacceptable in this day and age of flat seats and the like. The
entertainment system is just ok as I've discovered on other J flights
and this time the TV just wouldn't come free of its housing so I had no
entertainment at all. Another example of just poor worn out equipment.
AC's flight attendants on both to and from LHR were very good and so was
the food. I think they will performed even better when AC finally gets
some new equipment on this route. I feel for the attendants who I know
are let down by the existing equipment. They make the most of it
however and are amongst the most friendly in the sky. Air Canada is a
solid airline, by far the best in North America, and the Halifax based
crews really are a credit to the airline.
Air Canada review - by Evan Horbay
4 April 2007
YYZ-YYC-YEG in coach, with a group of 15 teenagers. Flight left Toronto
an hour late becaue a group of students connecting from Rome were
delayed. Plane did not have PTV's, but was fine. Fully packed, not one
empty seat out of 140. Landed in Calgary 20 min late, which left only 20
min to catch the prop. to Edmonton, an hour away. That flight actually
left 40 min late, because they wanted to give us connectors from Toronto
time to make the flight. That was smart, when 30 out of 50 passengers
were connecting. FA looked tired, and didnt smile once. That was
understandable, at 11 pm. Landed in Edmonton, and baggage didn't arrive
for half the passengers. Air Canada said that there was no space left in
the cargo hold, and that the cargo was on the next flight, which too was
delayed. We waited for an hour, until 12:30AM, when the bags finally
arrived. Overall, a good experience. I am glad that Air Canada didn't
abandon those students in Toronto! That shows they care about their
passengers.
Air Canada review - by Paul Gatto
4 April 2007
YVR-KIX. Recently flew business class in the newly refurbished 767 to
Osaka. At first the layout of the cabin is unusual as the seat
configuration is 1-1-1 with the seats set in angular formation to the
aisle. As this was the first flight for this particular aircraft the
cabin crew were appreciative of any feedback as it seems that they do
not really like it. The seat is rather narrow than the previous seats
on Air Canada's 767 so anyone who is of larger girth may feel crammed
in. Upon further inspection there are cubby holes and slots to put your
personal articles but no where to put a newspaper. Actually you can
throw things behind your seat. After reading postings on this site I was
not expecting much in the way of service, however, I was pleasantly
suprised. Champagne before take off was offered followed by another
drink service after take off which proceded a lunch service. Choice
between Japanese meals or Western both of which were served with much
style and promptness. Wine and sake were free flowing and the crew were
excellent through out. IFE system state of the art with touch screens,
however, if one wanted to complain the selection could have been wider,
but in my case it was only because I had seen most of the features
already. A snack station was set up in the galley with the basic items,
nothing too original, but bottles of water offered on request. Sleeping
on Air Canada finally is possible with these new seats as they recline
to a flat bed. Duvets and a mattress type pad which covers the flat seat
are provided to ensure a more restful sleep. Privacy is ensured with the
clever use of the dividers and the seat angle that you do not see anyone
when your seat is fully reclined into a bed. Upon landing at KIX a
snack is served. The western choice was a spinach/ricotta canneloni
which turned out very good. Air Canada has also upgraded their in-
flight china replacing the old stock with large white shallow bowls
which make the food more appetizing.
Air Canada review - by Bronwyn Myers
29 March 2007
YVR-YUL RETURN. Excellent re-furbished A320 in Economy class with
personal IFE screens. Managed to check-in on-line for this flight,
roughly 38 hours before the flight, which was great! Excellent service.
Watched a movie and some educational television programs; wide variety
of programs to suit all personal preferences. Tasty sandwich and some
fresh apple slices purchased on-board; beverages and water plentiful and
complimentary. Return flight excellent gate staff. Boarding was quick.
Again, A320 with personal IFE in Economy class. Service director was
seen about both cabins, very professional and friendly. Beverages and
water plentiful. I personally believe that snacks (or full meals) should
still be provided on flights over 4 hours, however AC was the last North
American airline to switch to buy-on-board in Economy.
Air Canada review - by Andrew Duff
20 March 2007
LHR-YYZ-YVR - LHR in economy. Patchy at best. LHR-YYZ was good, on an
Airbus A330-300. Decent legroom (33 inch pitch), food good and
plentiful, crew friendly, aircraft modern and clean. IFE antiquated,
just one big screen at the front of the cabin. No amenity kit.
YYZ-YVR very poor, on a tired, grimy 767. Toilets dirty, no free food on
a five hour flight, seats torn, cabin ancient. On the plus side, crew
were entertaining and Toronto airport checkin excellent. YVR-LHR a
little better - another old 767, but in better condition. Still not up
to scratch for a ten hour flight. No amenity kits for an overnight
flight. Not enough food this time - I would have expected a hot
breakfast. Legroom okay at 31 inches. Same movies as on the LHR - YYZ
flight, still no seatback screens. 'Maintenance issues' meant we were
held for an hour at the gate, and forty minutes late arriving. Found
myself looking longingly at the BA 747-400 on the tarmac next to us at
YVR. New 777s are being added to the fleet in 2007, not a moment too
soon. I would only consider AC again if I could avoid flying on their
767s.
Air Canada review - by M Dawn
20 March 2007
YVR-LAX return in economy. Outbound on a A319. Comfortable seating with
movable headrests and at least some basic IFE, albeit minimal. Staff
friendly. Return flight was supposed to be another A319 but was switched
to a new, reburbished A320. Legroom is good and the AVOD, despite a few
kinks, was a pleasant surprise for a 3 hour flight. It is nice to see
some positive changes at Air Canada as they are finally headed in the
right direction.
Air Canada review - by Victor Avayou
20 March 2007
Montreal - Shanghai via Vancouver. Executive Class. Quick check-in at
the Super Elite desk with a very helpful agent handling my upgrades
through to Shanghai. However boarding the plane to Vancouver, we were
told that the water pump was not working so no water to wash ones hands
after using the washroom and no water for making tea! Flight was delayed
for 1 hour as the co-pilot was flying in from Toronto and did not yet
arrive. Service was fine from the FA's yet one could tell that they were
not happy with this situation either and it showed on their faces. Upon
arrival in Vancouver, we were not given any information about connecting
flights, yet the concierge for Super Elite members was waiting for me
with info needed. The concierge service is the best part of this airline
and they do their utmost for Super Elites. Always a pleasure with them.
I had reserved for the Shanghai flight a single seat. AC flys a 767-300
in a 2-2-1 configuration. usually they re comfortable if dated seats.
Yet was shocked to board the oldest plane in the fleet. Members might
recognize this plane. It's AC's spare plane to be use when no other
aircraft is available. It has green leather seats, no personal tv, and
the leg supports barely comes up for you to lie down and get a decent
rest on what was a 13 hour flight. And yes they had a single seat - on
the first row ! It's 1-2-2 configuration. Opposite configuration of the
usual plane, and ended up with a window seat instead! Unbelievable that
they would fly such a sub-standard plane on a long-haul flight. They
handed out personal dvd players - you try balancing that on your lap for
the duration of a movie. I still believe that although AC has outdated
planes, their onboard personel are tops.
Air Canada review - by Frank Anderson
9 March 2007
Windsor-Toronto-Halifax March 7, 2007 (Executive Class). Flight landed
at YYZ at 530pm and we sat on the runway for 45 minutes for a ground
crew to become available. The flight crew were so upset they handed the
pilots business card around the cabin so that passengers could call in
complaints. According to the FA, this is a common occurance at YYZ, Air
Canada never has enough ground crew to handle the volume! I nearly
missed my connection to YHZ. Flight from YYZ to YHZ (Executive Class)
left a lot to be desired. FA's browsed through the cabin only when
required, very unfriendly crew. Seats were no better than in economy, an
older Boeing 767-300 that has seen its day. The food was substandard and
in fact a dish that was supposed to be served warm was served cold,
hurried, and not what one would expect when flying executive and at the
rates Air Canada charges. Arrival at YHZ we also found ourselves sitting
on the runway for 25 minutes, again not enough hands on deck to handle
the arrivals. Passengers waited for 45 minutes for baggage to arrive to
finally be told that nearly 60 of us had baggage that didnt arrive on
our plane. That entailed another 50 minute wait to file lost baggage
complaints! Our flight arrived at 930pm and many of us departed the
airport terminal well after midnight! I waited to see an on site
supervisor and after 30 minutes was told he was busy with other things
and would be another 30 minutes before he could see me. Thats what I got
for service when I paid $2800.00. Cold food, runway waiting, lost
baggage, long waits, and never finding anyone at Air Canada who really
cared about their customers. What a nightmare it is flying with Air
Canada!
Air Canada review - by Joan Rickerby
8 March 2007
YYZ-MIA-YYZ Business Class. Short flight (2 1/2 hours) but relaxing.
Punctual! Professional FAs and reassuring captain were both well
appreciated by this nervous traveller. Hot Coffee & tea, food was quite
palatable and seats were very comfortable. Warm towels were such a
welcome before disembarking. Just as nice and uneventful on the return
home. Overall, I'd rate my flight a 8.5/10
Air Canada review - by Mike Davies
27 February 2007
YVR-HKG Executive class. Very efficient and friendly service on both
flights, seats not too bad for the armchair variety. Food was great in
both directions and lots of water offered throughout the flight. The
entertainment system outbound was AVOD and great, the return flight was
the older version and not so great. Hoping AC replace these A340s on
this very long flight sooner rather than later. Overall a good job AC
Air Canada review - by Dominic Redcliffe
27 February 2007
LHR-YYZ-LHR. Excellent crew and service between London and Toronto, I
came off the flight well fed and relaxed, although the 767 seemed a bit
tired and worn. I have flown with Air Canada many times over the
Atlantic but it seems the 767s might have seen better days. Apart from
technical problems the crew were great and were very helpful. The check-
in in the new terminal at Toronto couldn't have been better.
Air Canada review - by Paul Davis
26 February 2007
Executive Class YYZ-FLL and return DCA-YYZ (FLL-DCA handled by US
Airways). Appreciated the invitation to visit AC's Maple Leaf lounge in
YYZ (AC is now one of the few North American airlines that offers
complimentary lounge access to all J Class pax.) 767-200 YYZ-FLL, on-
time departure, not surprising since it was one of the first flights out
of YYZ (6.30 am). Only 4 J class pax for a cabin that usually holds
20+. Aircraft in good condition, although the cabin was clearly dated.
Staff professional and attentive. No pre-departure drink, but hot
towels offered soon after take-off. Catering was okay, but
disappointing - according to the FAs they only loaded one kind of meal.
Was expecting a selection, but overall meal was okay. One positive note
about catering on AC - the coffee is excellent (sourced from the
Canadian version of Starbucks, Second Cup). Refills offered throughout
the flight, along with water, juice, etc. IFE headsets handed out before
departure. IFE mediocre at best, large screen at the front of the cabin
showing the news/sport and a film (recent film, from what I understand).
Baggage unloaded relatively quickly in FLL - was out of the terminal in
about 15 minutes. DCA - YYZ (this is where it gets interesting...)
Originally scheduled to depart at 8 pm. Ran from connecting late US
airways flight from CLT. Had to exit through security from terminal "C"
then go to terminal "A" (Terminals "A" and "C" are both in the same
building. Got to Terminal A and was told that I had to check-in with AC
at the check-in desk (US Airways did not issue me a boarding pass for
the AC flight). Ran to the AC check-in desk, checked-in and was told
that there was a two-and-three-quarter-hour delay. At 9.45 pm, a very
apologetic gate agent informed the 30 or so passengers that the flight
was delayed until 11 pm. At 10.00 the agent indicated that the flight
had been cancelled due to inability to get a flight crew. Agent began
to rebook me onto the next AC flight available the next morning. During
the booking she was informed that the flight had been reinstated and
that we would indeed be departing, now at 11.45pm. Must give credit to
the AC staff at DCA - they were all very informative, caring and
provided clear directions - the fault seemed to be with the information
provided by AC HQ. Aircraft arrived at 11.45, with a departure around
midnight. E175 - large windows, placed slightly above the normal
location (affording a wonderful view of the night stars), 1+2 layout in
J class, and excellent AVOD (news/maps were not functioning correctly,
but all else was) - if only the 767s were so equipped! Again service
excellent - on such a short flight only snacks and beverages offered,
but wine (a French chardonnay) was served in proper wine glasses and was
kept topped-up throughout the flight.
Air Canada review - by P Boil
19 February 2007
YOW-YYZ-BOS (and back to YOW later) to connect on US to Salt Lake City.
I've flown extensively on AC, QK, US, AF and BA this year and frankly,
AC is not that bad. Check-in in Ottawa was done by a friendly older lady
(your mom sort of type) which escorted me to the oversized baggage belt
because I was checking in a ski bag. She was very chatty and offered a
connection map for Toronto which I declined, having done it several
times. Boarded the 12:00 Rapidair to YYZ as usual 25 minutes ahead of
departure time. I saw looking out at the A320's registration that I was
lucky to be on one of the Xmed (their refurbishment program) A320s. Very
light load today, had a whole row to myself. The Xmed 320s are very,
very nice! Now that 16 have been completed as we speak, more people will
be able to enjoy them. PTVs not turned on for the short 40 minute flight
which is expected. I had a young crew which was very friendly and
chatty, they were all smiles. Connection in Toronto easy; took the
tarmac bus to the now closed Terminal 2 and was at the new gate within
20 minutes. Boarding and push back on time. The Embraer 175 are such
nice planes. Clean, comfortable and I had the seat next to me empty
again, about the only one in economy! PTVs turned on this time.
Excellent programming. Unlike US carriers on domestic flights, headsets
are free of charge and convertible one/two prongs so I used them on my
US airways flights - where they wanted 5$ for the exact same headphones.
Cabin crew was older on this flight. Efficient and not rude but nothing
special. Arrived on time in Boston and all luggage was on the belt. I
personally have never had a problem with AC, their inflight or ground
crews but perhaps I've been lucky. The one time my flight cancelled and
I was re-routed, I was bumbed to Business on both flights without even
asking. I will continue flying them as I feel it's certainly one of, If
not the best North American airline.
Air Canada review - by Bill Bentaieb
13 February 2007
Ottawa-Montreal-Vancouver. 25 hours to complete what is normally a 7
hours trip. Missed connection in Montreal due to lack of ramp staff to
let us out of flight arriving from Ottawa. When I went to the the AC
customer service desk in YUL to ask about next flt, was rudely told to
call reservations although missed connection was due to AC's inability
to staff its gate. Was put up at airport hotel by AC and caught next
morning's 5:30 am flt to Toronto where I connected to the 8am flt to
Vancouver. However aircraft needed a tire replacement and engine valve
fix. Needless to say we sat on the tarmac for 4 hours after the pilot
advised that the issue would be fixed in 30 minutes! After seeing the
ground repair crew close the engine and leave I asked the flight
attendant for an update, she replied that the crew were still working on
the engine, when I advised her that they had closed the engine and had
left the tarmac more than 20 minutes ago she then advised the pilot who
after 15 minutes advised us that the technical crew had unfortunately
left but not given him the right documentation to sign. The pilot
finally announced that the flight was cancelled and we were let off the
aircraft, where the 200 of us did not find a single ground staff to
help, after waiting for 20 minutes with no-one on hand to help I made my
own way to the ticket desk where I was booked onto another flight. As I
boarded I saw a single member of the ground staff trying to handle and
rebook over 200 pax from the cancelled flight. Needless to say I found
Air Canada to be the most the dizorganized of airlines with an appalling
culture of disregard for the passengers' needs.
Air Canada review - by Mike Davies
9 February 2007
YVR -SAN return in economy. Flew down on A321 via San Francisco good
prompt service, clean plane and decent staff, a shame that you don't
even get a bag of chips for free any more. Changed to UA in San Fran,
very old tatty plane and snarky attendants. Return on CRJ 700, excellent
interior, very clean and great seat pitch. AVOD system was great and
kept my children well occupied. Cabin staff very attentive and friendly.
Overall a great trip, if this is the future of AC then I see a return to
a four star airline in the future.
Air Canada review - by G Smithson
8 February 2007
YUL-YYZ-HKG, with journey to Hong Kong on A340-500, J class. Check in
difficult as agent took great pleasure in finding carry on overweight.
Service on the Hong Kong leg was friendly and food fine. The "flat" bed
was a great disappointment, however - seats looked scuffed and tired
but, more importantly, very uncomfortable due to the 15 degree or so
angle. Constantly slid down the seat, making it hard to get restful
sleep. Much less effective than BA's flat bed, and the contrast was
even more obvious when I then flew to Singapore on a new Singapore
B777-300ER - absolutely amazing business class product. Hopefully Air
Canada's 777's will have a different seat when they come on line. The
A340-500's do have in seat power for laptops - recently flew to Tokyo on
an Air Canada 340-300 which, quite amazingly for 2007, did not have a
power port.
Air Canada review - by Axel Koch
5 February 2007
Toronto to Munich on an B767-300. The plane was extremely worn down,
cables hanging loose under the seats, one toilet was closed and
inoperative right from the start in YYZ, excuse hanging on the door,
handwritten on a small sheet. Our seats and those close to our row could
best be described as wrecked, some passengers laughed, others were
embarrassed, they asked: what is the condition of the rest of the plane?
We had no chance to enjoy the meal, because the seats in front of us
came down on our knees, they could not be brought into an upright
position anymore. Upon request a flight attendant told us that this
plane was owned by a Spanish carrier before and had gone through many
hands and has been around "for many, many years". I must say, that even
for a seasoned traveller like me, I was frightened to some extent in
this night over the North Atlantic. I loved this carrier very much in
the past, my first encounter back in 1966, having since flown on AC
quite a few times between Germany and Canada. They should not allow to
let depart such a shameful B-767, even the captain apologized after the
landing.
Air Canada review - by Brian Fairey
29 January 2007
Toronto to San Diego, although booked months ahead and downloaded
boarding passes the day before we were 'bumped' we went via Dallas with
compensation. Return flight on a Embraer E75. This equipment is not
suitable for a 4 hour flight. One toilet for the unwashed, limited food.
no hot food. We only fly AC when forced to.
Air Canada review - by James Faulkner
26 January 2007
JFK-YYC, Economy. Fantastic flight, FA's great and helpful with
Questions about Banff. Entertainment good, better than any US carrier.
Aircraft seemed new and well maintained. After about 10 other flights in
the month before on other carriers, this was the best. Even better than
Qantas. Movies could be paused for bathroom visits, but food had to be
bought and was ordinary. Was very pleasantly surprised all in all. Great
work Air Canada review - best in North America by far.
Air Canada review - by Mike Davies
27 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
YVR-SFO in new Embraer 175. Very clean and spacious aircraft, excellent
avod touchscreen. Seats comfortable in economy and service was a great
improvement for Air Canada. It seems they are trying very hard to pull
themselves up by the boot straps.
Air Canada review - by M McCombie
26 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
Heathrow to Toronto - no seat-back tray tables on at least seven seats.
Cabin crew great - offering to move us, but as the flight was full -
limited choice of alternative seats. The alternatives were where AC
staff were sitting - so AC staff would be moved to seats without tray-
tables! Cabin staff explained they'd asked gate staff at LHR not to
allocate those seats; gate staff apparently advised cabin staff that
they'd advised affected pax and pax were "happy" with no tray-tables!
Toronto to Vancouver - gent next to me was asked to move seats as we
were approaching YVR, to allow another gent to take his seat, and he
could move to a crew jump-seat. First chap's seat (at emergency exit)
had "collapsed", so couldn't be used. Swap around of seats required as
chap seated at exit was not the slimmest character around, presumably a
more petite stature is preferable for jump-seat.
Air Canada review - by M Kroeker
25 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
YWG-YXE-YYC return to YWG. Outbound was a tired CRJ, flight attendants
very pleasant, decor was old, seats torn and uncomfortable. Upon arrival
waiting to collect my bags, was told by Air Canada baggage agent that my
bags were checked straight through to Calgary. Apparently if you have 2
flights in the system on the same day they check them straight through
to final destination. Luckily YXE being very small, their very helpful
AC gate agent found the bag I needed and brought it out to me. Flight to
YYC later that day was uneventful, again on a newer CRJ. Returning to
Winnipeg 3 days later on a newer CRJ-70. Very clean aircraft with
refurbished interior and IFE in seat. Flight attendants very helpful and
pleasant. Overall Air Canada has been working hard to improve it's fleet
and customer service. Travelling for business is a pleasure on Air
Canada.
Air Canada review - by Alan Wan
24 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
LHR-YVR-LAS-YYZ-LHR. Economy on a redemption ticket from SIA. The LHR-
YVR sector was on a A330-300 which was roomy, the FA were extremely
pleasent, the food fine including free alcohol throughout the only minus
point was general view IFE. YVR-LAS-YYZ was on refurbished A320 which
had seatback AVOD IFE's very impressive for a North American flight.
FA's were extremely friendly, there was quite a choice of food available
for sale but we brought our own. YYZ-LHR was on a refurbished 767-300
which has seatback AVOD IFE which had the same choice as films as the
USA/Canada flights, although not as good as SIA's Krisworld it certainly
beats UA across the Atlantic which we use just as often as Air Canada.
I've always found Air Canada great but the IFE let it down but they've
really sorted it and I thinks its the best transatlantic airline I've
flown with in the past few years. The food is never going to compete
with the Asian carriers so I'll give them 4 stars.
Air Canada review - by Ivan Ilieff
24 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
YYZ-LAX Economy. The Total Makeover A320 was quite clean, but color
scheme rather bland. The seats were OK, but without an adjustable
headrest and no side support on the headrest. Pillows and blankets were
available for a charge (??!! - what is next - if you want to sit down
you pay, otherwise we put you in the cargo hold). Food for purchase -
rather good selection of sandwiches and snacks. Much better than the US
alternatives. Great IFE - touch-screen navigation, good choice of
movies, audio, and games on demand. Overall good experience, the only
complaint was really the seat comfort and the rather disappointing look
of the widely advertised Total Makeover cabin. It looks like an old
Lufthansa cabin from the 80's.
Air Canada review - by Helen Thomas
20 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
LHR-YYZ-LHR return. Oh dear! For a country's national airline, quite a
disappointment. Boeing 767-300 both ways, very old and grimy. Seats
ripped and torn, toilets filthy, floor carpets torn and plane on
outbound journey smelt of rotting food. Crew did the best they could and
were courteous and worked hard. IFE worked when it felt like it. Very
poor pitch size (economy ), my husband is only 5'8" but he had seat
pressed against his knees. Would not recommend until they Air Canada
spend more money to get their fleet updated.!!
Air Canada review - by Jim Hooper
20 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
LHR-YYZ-LHR both sectors on A340-300s. Comfortable seat pitch for such an old plane. Both flights
were incredibly dull due to the appalling lack of IFE. It was like going back 10 years with one
large screen at the front and 3-4 drop down TV screens in each section of the cabin. The two movie
choices were also rather dated. We left LHR nearly 2 hours late but made up over an hour during
flight to YYZ. Again, late leaving YYZ but got back to UK in record time, 6h40mins! I understand
that AC will replace these old birds with new B777s. I cant wait! I am a fan of AC, the FA's are
always polite and hard working but they really need to update the cabins on these high frequency
routes.
Air Canada review - by M Graham
20 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
LHR to YUL return in economy. The flight was on time, FAs nice and did
an excellent job on return flight which was full and lots of families
with babies. The leg room is generous. Food fine, no complaints. All in
all a very pleasant flight both ways. I would chose AC over BA for the
leg room and the flight timings. One small niggle, do the cockpit crew
ever talk to the passengers any more!
Air Canada review - by Ed Rochfort
20 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating :
Toronto to Edmonton. The inflight service was good but when we arrived
at our destination we waited for approximately 75 minutes for our bags
to arrive on the baggage carrousel. There was no Air Canada Baggage
Agent to apologize or even explain the reason for the unbelievable
delay. The majority of people around me were simply fuming that they had
to wait so long for their baggage. Several people mentioned that this
just reinforced their belief that this airline's customer service is
practically non-existant.
Air Canada review - by Len Perry
12 April 2007 Customer Trip Rating : n/a
YHZ LHR in J. The flight started out almost 2 hours late. I had a 2
hour transit time in LHR before my next flight so this late start almost
eliminated that. The J cabin is dated and row 6 has limited recline,
really unacceptable in this day and age of flat seats and the like. The
entertainment system is just ok as I've discovered on other J flights
and this time the TV just wouldn't come free of its housing so I had no
entertainment at all. Another example of just poor worn out equipment.
AC's flight attendants on both to and from LHR were very good and so was
the food. I think they will performed even better when AC finally gets
some new equipment on this route. I feel for the attendants who I know
are let down by the existing equipment. They make the most of it
however and are amongst the most friendly in the sky. Air Canada is a
solid airline, by far the best in North America, and the Halifax based
crews really are a credit to the airline.
Air Canada review - by Evan Horbay
4 April 2007
YYZ-YYC-YEG in coach, with a group of 15 teenagers. Flight left Toronto
an hour late becaue a group of students connecting from Rome were
delayed. Plane did not have PTV's, but was fine. Fully packed, not one
empty seat out of 140. Landed in Calgary 20 min late, which left only 20
min to catch the prop. to Edmonton, an hour away. That flight actually
left 40 min late, because they wanted to give us connectors from Toronto
time to make the flight. That was smart, when 30 out of 50 passengers
were connecting. FA looked tired, and didnt smile once. That was
understandable, at 11 pm. Landed in Edmonton, and baggage didn't arrive
for half the passengers. Air Canada said that there was no space left in
the cargo hold, and that the cargo was on the next flight, which too was
delayed. We waited for an hour, until 12:30AM, when the bags finally
arrived. Overall, a good experience. I am glad that Air Canada didn't
abandon those students in Toronto! That shows they care about their
passengers.
Air Canada review - by Paul Gatto
4 April 2007
YVR-KIX. Recently flew business class in the newly refurbished 767 to
Osaka. At first the layout of the cabin is unusual as the seat
configuration is 1-1-1 with the seats set in angular formation to the
aisle. As this was the first flight for this particular aircraft the
cabin crew were appreciative of any feedback as it seems that they do
not really like it. The seat is rather narrow than the previous seats
on Air Canada's 767 so anyone who is of larger girth may feel crammed
in. Upon further inspection there are cubby holes and slots to put your
personal articles but no where to put a newspaper. Actually you can
throw things behind your seat. After reading postings on this site I was
not expecting much in the way of service, however, I was pleasantly
suprised. Champagne before take off was offered followed by another
drink service after take off which proceded a lunch service. Choice
between Japanese meals or Western both of which were served with much
style and promptness. Wine and sake were free flowing and the crew were
excellent through out. IFE system state of the art with touch screens,
however, if one wanted to complain the selection could have been wider,
but in my case it was only because I had seen most of the features
already. A snack station was set up in the galley with the basic items,
nothing too original, but bottles of water offered on request. Sleeping
on Air Canada finally is possible with these new seats as they recline
to a flat bed. Duvets and a mattress type pad which covers the flat seat
are provided to ensure a more restful sleep. Privacy is ensured with the
clever use of the dividers and the seat angle that you do not see anyone
when your seat is fully reclined into a bed. Upon landing at KIX a
snack is served. The western choice was a spinach/ricotta canneloni
which turned out very good. Air Canada has also upgraded their in-
flight china replacing the old stock with large white shallow bowls
which make the food more appetizing.
Air Canada review - by Bronwyn Myers
29 March 2007
YVR-YUL RETURN. Excellent re-furbished A320 in Economy class with
personal IFE screens. Managed to check-in on-line for this flight,
roughly 38 hours before the flight, which was great! Excellent service.
Watched a movie and some educational television programs; wide variety
of programs to suit all personal preferences. Tasty sandwich and some
fresh apple slices purchased on-board; beverages and water plentiful and
complimentary. Return flight excellent gate staff. Boarding was quick.
Again, A320 with personal IFE in Economy class. Service director was
seen about both cabins, very professional and friendly. Beverages and
water plentiful. I personally believe that snacks (or full meals) should
still be provided on flights over 4 hours, however AC was the last North
American airline to switch to buy-on-board in Economy.
Air Canada review - by Andrew Duff
20 March 2007
LHR-YYZ-YVR - LHR in economy. Patchy at best. LHR-YYZ was good, on an
Airbus A330-300. Decent legroom (33 inch pitch), food good and
plentiful, crew friendly, aircraft modern and clean. IFE antiquated,
just one big screen at the front of the cabin. No amenity kit.
YYZ-YVR very poor, on a tired, grimy 767. Toilets dirty, no free food on
a five hour flight, seats torn, cabin ancient. On the plus side, crew
were entertaining and Toronto airport checkin excellent. YVR-LHR a
little better - another old 767, but in better condition. Still not up
to scratch for a ten hour flight. No amenity kits for an overnight
flight. Not enough food this time - I would have expected a hot
breakfast. Legroom okay at 31 inches. Same movies as on the LHR - YYZ
flight, still no seatback screens. 'Maintenance issues' meant we were
held for an hour at the gate, and forty minutes late arriving. Found
myself looking longingly at the BA 747-400 on the tarmac next to us at
YVR. New 777s are being added to the fleet in 2007, not a moment too
soon. I would only consider AC again if I could avoid flying on their
767s.
Air Canada review - by M Dawn
20 March 2007
YVR-LAX return in economy. Outbound on a A319. Comfortable seating with
movable headrests and at least some basic IFE, albeit minimal. Staff
friendly. Return flight was supposed to be another A319 but was switched
to a new, reburbished A320. Legroom is good and the AVOD, despite a few
kinks, was a pleasant surprise for a 3 hour flight. It is nice to see
some positive changes at Air Canada as they are finally headed in the
right direction.
Air Canada review - by Victor Avayou
20 March 2007
Montreal - Shanghai via Vancouver. Executive Class. Quick check-in at
the Super Elite desk with a very helpful agent handling my upgrades
through to Shanghai. However boarding the plane to Vancouver, we were
told that the water pump was not working so no water to wash ones hands
after using the washroom and no water for making tea! Flight was delayed
for 1 hour as the co-pilot was flying in from Toronto and did not yet
arrive. Service was fine from the FA's yet one could tell that they were
not happy with this situation either and it showed on their faces. Upon
arrival in Vancouver, we were not given any information about connecting
flights, yet the concierge for Super Elite members was waiting for me
with info needed. The concierge service is the best part of this airline
and they do their utmost for Super Elites. Always a pleasure with them.
I had reserved for the Shanghai flight a single seat. AC flys a 767-300
in a 2-2-1 configuration. usually they re comfortable if dated seats.
Yet was shocked to board the oldest plane in the fleet. Members might
recognize this plane. It's AC's spare plane to be use when no other
aircraft is available. It has green leather seats, no personal tv, and
the leg supports barely comes up for you to lie down and get a decent
rest on what was a 13 hour flight. And yes they had a single seat - on
the first row ! It's 1-2-2 configuration. Opposite configuration of the
usual plane, and ended up with a window seat instead! Unbelievable that
they would fly such a sub-standard plane on a long-haul flight. They
handed out personal dvd players - you try balancing that on your lap for
the duration of a movie. I still believe that although AC has outdated
planes, their onboard personel are tops.
Air Canada review - by Frank Anderson
9 March 2007
Windsor-Toronto-Halifax March 7, 2007 (Executive Class). Flight landed
at YYZ at 530pm and we sat on the runway for 45 minutes for a ground
crew to become available. The flight crew were so upset they handed the
pilots business card around the cabin so that passengers could call in
complaints. According to the FA, this is a common occurance at YYZ, Air
Canada never has enough ground crew to handle the volume! I nearly
missed my connection to YHZ. Flight from YYZ to YHZ (Executive Class)
left a lot to be desired. FA's browsed through the cabin only when
required, very unfriendly crew. Seats were no better than in economy, an
older Boeing 767-300 that has seen its day. The food was substandard and
in fact a dish that was supposed to be served warm was served cold,
hurried, and not what one would expect when flying executive and at the
rates Air Canada charges. Arrival at YHZ we also found ourselves sitting
on the runway for 25 minutes, again not enough hands on deck to handle
the arrivals. Passengers waited for 45 minutes for baggage to arrive to
finally be told that nearly 60 of us had baggage that didnt arrive on
our plane. That entailed another 50 minute wait to file lost baggage
complaints! Our flight arrived at 930pm and many of us departed the
airport terminal well after midnight! I waited to see an on site
supervisor and after 30 minutes was told he was busy with other things
and would be another 30 minutes before he could see me. Thats what I got
for service when I paid $2800.00. Cold food, runway waiting, lost
baggage, long waits, and never finding anyone at Air Canada who really
cared about their customers. What a nightmare it is flying with Air
Canada!
Air Canada review - by Joan Rickerby
8 March 2007
YYZ-MIA-YYZ Business Class. Short flight (2 1/2 hours) but relaxing.
Punctual! Professional FAs and reassuring captain were both well
appreciated by this nervous traveller. Hot Coffee & tea, food was quite
palatable and seats were very comfortable. Warm towels were such a
welcome before disembarking. Just as nice and uneventful on the return
home. Overall, I'd rate my flight a 8.5/10
Air Canada review - by Mike Davies
27 February 2007
YVR-HKG Executive class. Very efficient and friendly service on both
flights, seats not too bad for the armchair variety. Food was great in
both directions and lots of water offered throughout the flight. The
entertainment system outbound was AVOD and great, the return flight was
the older version and not so great. Hoping AC replace these A340s on
this very long flight sooner rather than later. Overall a good job AC
Air Canada review - by Dominic Redcliffe
27 February 2007
LHR-YYZ-LHR. Excellent crew and service between London and Toronto, I
came off the flight well fed and relaxed, although the 767 seemed a bit
tired and worn. I have flown with Air Canada many times over the
Atlantic but it seems the 767s might have seen better days. Apart from
technical problems the crew were great and were very helpful. The check-
in in the new terminal at Toronto couldn't have been better.
Air Canada review - by Paul Davis
26 February 2007
Executive Class YYZ-FLL and return DCA-YYZ (FLL-DCA handled by US
Airways). Appreciated the invitation to visit AC's Maple Leaf lounge in
YYZ (AC is now one of the few North American airlines that offers
complimentary lounge access to all J Class pax.) 767-200 YYZ-FLL, on-
time departure, not surprising since it was one of the first flights out
of YYZ (6.30 am). Only 4 J class pax for a cabin that usually holds
20+. Aircraft in good condition, although the cabin was clearly dated.
Staff professional and attentive. No pre-departure drink, but hot
towels offered soon after take-off. Catering was okay, but
disappointing - according to the FAs they only loaded one kind of meal.
Was expecting a selection, but overall meal was okay. One positive note
about catering on AC - the coffee is excellent (sourced from the
Canadian version of Starbucks, Second Cup). Refills offered throughout
the flight, along with water, juice, etc. IFE headsets handed out before
departure. IFE mediocre at best, large screen at the front of the cabin
showing the news/sport and a film (recent film, from what I understand).
Baggage unloaded relatively quickly in FLL - was out of the terminal in
about 15 minutes. DCA - YYZ (this is where it gets interesting...)
Originally scheduled to depart at 8 pm. Ran from connecting late US
airways flight from CLT. Had to exit through security from terminal "C"
then go to terminal "A" (Terminals "A" and "C" are both in the same
building. Got to Terminal A and was told that I had to check-in with AC
at the check-in desk (US Airways did not issue me a boarding pass for
the AC flight). Ran to the AC check-in desk, checked-in and was told
that there was a two-and-three-quarter-hour delay. At 9.45 pm, a very
apologetic gate agent informed the 30 or so passengers that the flight
was delayed until 11 pm. At 10.00 the agent indicated that the flight
had been cancelled due to inability to get a flight crew. Agent began
to rebook me onto the next AC flight available the next morning. During
the booking she was informed that the flight had been reinstated and
that we would indeed be departing, now at 11.45pm. Must give credit to
the AC staff at DCA - they were all very informative, caring and
provided clear directions - the fault seemed to be with the information
provided by AC HQ. Aircraft arrived at 11.45, with a departure around
midnight. E175 - large windows, placed slightly above the normal
location (affording a wonderful view of the night stars), 1+2 layout in
J class, and excellent AVOD (news/maps were not functioning correctly,
but all else was) - if only the 767s were so equipped! Again service
excellent - on such a short flight only snacks and beverages offered,
but wine (a French chardonnay) was served in proper wine glasses and was
kept topped-up throughout the flight.
Air Canada review - by P Boil
19 February 2007
YOW-YYZ-BOS (and back to YOW later) to connect on US to Salt Lake City.
I've flown extensively on AC, QK, US, AF and BA this year and frankly,
AC is not that bad. Check-in in Ottawa was done by a friendly older lady
(your mom sort of type) which escorted me to the oversized baggage belt
because I was checking in a ski bag. She was very chatty and offered a
connection map for Toronto which I declined, having done it several
times. Boarded the 12:00 Rapidair to YYZ as usual 25 minutes ahead of
departure time. I saw looking out at the A320's registration that I was
lucky to be on one of the Xmed (their refurbishment program) A320s. Very
light load today, had a whole row to myself. The Xmed 320s are very,
very nice! Now that 16 have been completed as we speak, more people will
be able to enjoy them. PTVs not turned on for the short 40 minute flight
which is expected. I had a young crew which was very friendly and
chatty, they were all smiles. Connection in Toronto easy; took the
tarmac bus to the now closed Terminal 2 and was at the new gate within
20 minutes. Boarding and push back on time. The Embraer 175 are such
nice planes. Clean, comfortable and I had the seat next to me empty
again, about the only one in economy! PTVs turned on this time.
Excellent programming. Unlike US carriers on domestic flights, headsets
are free of charge and convertible one/two prongs so I used them on my
US airways flights - where they wanted 5$ for the exact same headphones.
Cabin crew was older on this flight. Efficient and not rude but nothing
special. Arrived on time in Boston and all luggage was on the belt. I
personally have never had a problem with AC, their inflight or ground
crews but perhaps I've been lucky. The one time my flight cancelled and
I was re-routed, I was bumbed to Business on both flights without even
asking. I will continue flying them as I feel it's certainly one of, If
not the best North American airline.
Air Canada review - by Bill Bentaieb
13 February 2007
Ottawa-Montreal-Vancouver. 25 hours to complete what is normally a 7
hours trip. Missed connection in Montreal due to lack of ramp staff to
let us out of flight arriving from Ottawa. When I went to the the AC
customer service desk in YUL to ask about next flt, was rudely told to
call reservations although missed connection was due to AC's inability
to staff its gate. Was put up at airport hotel by AC and caught next
morning's 5:30 am flt to Toronto where I connected to the 8am flt to
Vancouver. However aircraft needed a tire replacement and engine valve
fix. Needless to say we sat on the tarmac for 4 hours after the pilot
advised that the issue would be fixed in 30 minutes! After seeing the
ground repair crew close the engine and leave I asked the flight
attendant for an update, she replied that the crew were still working on
the engine, when I advised her that they had closed the engine and had
left the tarmac more than 20 minutes ago she then advised the pilot who
after 15 minutes advised us that the technical crew had unfortunately
left but not given him the right documentation to sign. The pilot
finally announced that the flight was cancelled and we were let off the
aircraft, where the 200 of us did not find a single ground staff to
help, after waiting for 20 minutes with no-one on hand to help I made my
own way to the ticket desk where I was booked onto another flight. As I
boarded I saw a single member of the ground staff trying to handle and
rebook over 200 pax from the cancelled flight. Needless to say I found
Air Canada to be the most the dizorganized of airlines with an appalling
culture of disregard for the passengers' needs.
|
