What is the Air Canada surcharge?

This is a fare supplement (code Q or YQ) added to the price of paid Air Canada tickets. It covers fuel and insurance costs. The amount varies depending on the route, direction, and booking class.

Which flights are affected by this surcharge?

The majority of Air Canada's international and transborder routes are affected: Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and certain routes to the United States. The complete list is published in Air Canada's Rule 115, updated on March 26, 2026.

Are Aeroplan tickets affected?

No. For now, tickets redeemed with Aeroplan points are not subject to this surcharge. Only paid tickets (purchased with money) are affected. However, this exemption could change in the future.

How much does the Air Canada surcharge cost?

Amounts range from CA$40 (Canada–U.S. transborder) to CA$1,320 (business class to Europe) per one-way. Routes to Europe and the Middle East generally carry the highest surcharges.

How do I see the surcharge on my ticket?

Look for the code Q or YQ in the taxes and fees section of your booking confirmation. This amount is distinct from the base fare and government taxes.

Do other airlines apply similar surcharges?

Yes, several airlines like Porter Airlines and Cathay Pacific have announced surcharges. WestJet has not yet announced a similar measure.

How to avoid the Air Canada surcharge?

The most effective method remains to use your Aeroplan points for your flights, as long as point redemptions remain exempt. You can also compare with carriers that do not apply a surcharge on the same routes, such as WestJet.

Can the surcharge be refunded?

The surcharge is an integral part of the ticket price. In case of cancellation, it follows the same refund rules as the base fare — meaning it depends on your ticket's fare policy (refundable, non-refundable, flexible, etc.).