Air Canada Bereavement Fares: Eligibility, Discounts & How to Apply
Losing a loved one is never easy and planning urgent travel during such an emotional time can be overwhelming. To help families travel quickly and with flexibility, Air Canada bereavement fares. These special tickets are not always the absolute cheapest flights, but they provide reduced prices and flexible conditions when you need them most.
What Are Air Canada Bereavement Fares?
Air Canada bereavement fares are discounted economy tickets offered when you must travel due to the imminent death or passing of an immediate family member.
Unlike regular sale fares, the main benefit is flexibility fewer penalties for changes and easier last-minute booking.
Key travel timing rules
Travel must begin within 10 days of booking
Trip must be completed within 60 days
Only applies to upcoming travel (not after the trip)
Who Is Eligible?
You qualify if you are traveling because of a death or imminent death of an immediate family member.
Typical eligible relatives include:
Parent or step-parent
Child or step-child
Sibling
Grandparent or grandchild
Spouse, partner, or common-law partner
The fare is valid on flights:
Operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, or Air Canada Express
Some codeshare partner flights
Important Restrictions
Bereavement fares do NOT apply to:
Economy Basic fares within North America
Requests made after travel is completed
What Discount Do You Get?
Air Canada does not publish a fixed percentage discount. Instead, the airline offers a reduced flexible fare based on the current price.
In practice, this means:
Usually cheaper than last-minute flexible tickets
More flexible than basic economy
May not always beat sale fares
The real advantage is flexibility not just price.
Required Documents
You must prove the emergency. Be prepared to provide:
Personal information
Name of the deceased or ill person
Your relationship to them
Contact details
Hospital or physician information OR
Funeral home details and date of service
Supporting proof (after travel or during booking)
Death certificate
Funeral director statement
Coroner or hospital letter
Failing to submit documents may result in a fare difference being charged later.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
You cannot book bereavement fares online you must call.
Step 1 — Call Reservations
Contact Air Canada and request a bereavement fare.
You’ll explain the situation and provide family details.
Step 2 — Choose Eligible Fare
The agent will offer options within:
Economy Standard
Flex
Comfort
Latitude
Step 3 — Submit Documentation
Provide proof during booking or shortly after travel.
Step 4 — Travel
You can modify flights more easily if plans change.
Tips to Save More Money
Always compare with regular fares first
Ask for flexible return dates
Book immediately — prices rise fast
Keep documents ready before calling
Final Thoughts
Air Canada bereavement fares are designed for compassion and flexibility rather than deep discounts. While they may not always be the cheapest option, they provide peace of mind during stressful situations allowing you to travel quickly, change plans easily, and focus on family instead of penalties.

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