Purchase a ticket online. Air Canada allows passengers to purchase airline tickets either online or at an airport ticket counter. Many customers make online ticket purchases through the Air Canada website or through a number of discount travel services. Travelers must produce a valid credit or debit card, with a major credit card logo, to complete the transaction. In most cases, an electronic ticket will be generated along with a booking reference number.
Purchase a ticket at an airline ticket counter. Air Canada operates airport ticket counters at airports in 33 countries worldwide. As of 2010, Air Canada customers in Canada or the United States must present a government-issued photo identification card for all ticket counter purchases. To prevent a loss of funds because of flight cancellations, fully refundable tickets are available for travelers to Air Canada destinations. Travelers must arrive at the airport at least two hours before the departure time when traveling internationally.
Obtain an electronic boarding pass. As of 2010, Air Canada allows passengers to obtain an electronic boarding pass on its website from 90 minutes to 24 hours before boarding Canada to U.S. flights, and two to 24 hours before boarding flights to all other international destinations. Travelers must key in either an Aeroplan number, a credit card number or a booking reference number to obtain an electronic boarding pass. In addition, travelers must be prepared to go through security measures and present a valid photo ID when arriving at the airport after printing an electronic boarding pass.
Obtain a boarding pass at the airport. Air Canada allows passengers to obtain a boarding pass at the airport of embarkation with a purchased airline ticket and a valid government-issued identification card. Self check-in kiosks allow passengers to obtain a boarding pass using a purchased ticket. If checking baggage, travelers must arrive well ahead of the scheduled departure time with a valid government-issued ID.
