Air Canada introduced Premium Economy Basic and Business Class Basic fares, giving travellers lower-priced access to its premium cabins.
The new fare categories mirror many of the conditions already associated with Economy Basic fares. Both are non-refundable, changes are permitted for a fee, and passengers must pay extra to select their seats in advance.
According to reports, the new fares, available beginning today (July 28, 2026), will be priced below Air Canada’s existing premium options while retaining the premium cabin seat, onboard meal, priority boarding, and priority baggage handling,
Despite the added restrictions, travellers will still receive several premium travel benefits. Both fare types include one complimentary checked bag, and a carry-on bag.
Passengers booking Premium Economy Basic will not receive lounge access.
Those travelling on Business Class Basic can still access Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges, but entry to the airline's Signature Suites is not included.
The new fares are available on eligible routes throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, Latin America, South America and transatlantic joint-venture markets. They are not available for travel to Iran, Israel or the United Arab Emirates.
Air Canada said Aeroplan Elite Status members, Star Alliance Gold members and eligible Aeroplan premium credit cardholders will continue to receive applicable benefits when travelling on the new fare types.
Both Premium Economy Basic and Business Class Basic fares earn one Aeroplan point for every eligible dollar spent on the base fare and carrier-imposed surcharges. Aeroplan Elite Status members can earn between two and six points per eligible dollar, depending on their status level.
The fares also earn four Status Qualifying Credits per eligible dollar spent on eligible base fares and carrier-imposed surcharges, consistent with Air Canada's other Premium Economy and Business Class fare products.
Travellers booking either Basic fare will not be eligible to redeem eUpgrades.
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