Is AIR CANADA as BAD as People Say?

When it comes to air travel, few topics ignite as much passion and debate as airline quality. Recently, I delved into the world of Air Canada, often touted as one of the worst airlines based on numerous reviews online. With over 32,000 reviews on Tripadvisor, nearly a third of them give Air Canada just one star, and many lament the absence of a zero-star option. So, is this airline truly deserving of such a poor reputation? I set off on Air Canada’s flight 823 from Barcelona to Montreal to find out for myself.

Booking and Expectations

I booked my ticket mid-last year for approximately $2,100 USD, which equates to around $3,400 AUD for a return flight. Each leg of the journey lasts about 8 hours, translating to a cost of roughly $132 per hour. Interestingly, I checked the fares last week, and they had skyrocketed to nearly three times what I paid. Given the plethora of negative reviews and the relatively low price I snagged, I was left wondering: should I brace myself for a nightmare flight?

At the Airport

My adventure began at Barcelona’s El Prat Airport, where I arrived early to navigate the check-in process. The airport had seven counters in total: four for economy and three for business class. However, one of the business class counters had been repurposed for both classes, leading to lengthy queues. If you find yourself in the economy line, be prepared for a wait of at least 40 minutes. Additionally, the tax-free shopping area had its own long lines, which can add to the travel stress.

As a business class passenger, I appreciated the fast access through security, a perk that mitigated some of the waiting time. If you have some time to kill, Barcelona airport offers plenty of retail options, including duty-free alcohol and tobacco. However, don’t expect any bargains; a hot dog here will cost you about $15 USD.

Exploring the Lounge

After clearing security, I made my way to the lounge that services several airlines. The food selection was above average, although I opted for a hot dog, which I rated a modest 5 out of 10. Beverages included beer, wine, and soft drinks, but I learned that spirits were only available after midday—a detail I missed due to my limited Spanish skills. The standout item was a green potato tart, which I found quite enjoyable.

The Aircraft

Shortly before departure, I received an email from Air Canada with all my flight details, including the aircraft information. I was scheduled to fly on a Boeing 777-300ER, which was 16 years old. While some may consider that outdated, I found it reassuring to know that newer models had been used in the previous week. My main concern, however, was the overall service quality, which many reviews indicated was lacking.

Boarding Process

Boarding was less than ideal. The airport utilized only one air bridge, and with an escalator out of service, the process was slow. Once onboard, I settled into seat 1A, located in the business class section that spans two cabins. The seat design allowed for easy access even with the table down—a feature not always present in business class.

Seat Comfort and Amenities

My seat was notably comfortable, featuring a one-piece design for the bottom section, which enhanced my overall experience. Upon arrival, I found an amenities kit that included socks, an eye mask, earplugs, a dental kit, and quality hand cream and lip balm from Acqua di Parma. Noise-canceling headphones were also provided, along with a pillow, mattress, and duvet already set up on my seat.

The privacy offered by the suite layout was a welcome feature, as the seats faced away from one another. However, the middle seats had a divider that didn’t go down, limiting communication with your travel companion. Each seat also featured a panel for controlling lighting, calling the cabin crew, and even a massage function. For storage, there was a two-tier pocket and a small, somewhat exposed storage area.

In-Flight Entertainment and Dining

The entertainment screen was an appropriate size for the seating distance, and while it may not be the most extensive selection, it was more than sufficient for an 8-hour flight. The Air Canada menu was quite thorough, featuring a variety of options for wine and champagne drinkers, including Joseph Perrier champagne and a selection of red and white wines.

About 46 minutes after takeoff, we were served smoked salmon with chives, cream cheese, and salad dressed with Greek olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It was so delightful that I requested a second serving, but the crew could only find one on a return tray for me later. An hour and twenty minutes into the flight, I had the cod dish, which I rated an impressive 8.5 out of 10. The flesh was tender, and the accompanying sauce and rice complemented it perfectly.

Overall Service and Experience

The service throughout the flight was good—not exceptional, but certainly not bad. I found myself engrossed in the in-flight entertainment, particularly enjoying “The Morning Show” featuring Jennifer Aniston and Steve Carell. As we approached landing, I realized that my seat didn’t recline completely flat, which could be a drawback compared to other airlines like Qatar Airways or Emirates.

Seventy-five minutes before landing, a snack basket was made available, featuring chicken breast, fruit, and chocolate. My flight ultimately landed about 14 minutes late, but thanks to my APEC card, I breezed through immigration.

Final Thoughts

So, what do I think of my Air Canada experience? To put it simply, it was pretty good. The food was excellent, seat comfort was fantastic, and the staff were attentive. Given the price I paid, it was one of the best value flights I’ve had all year. Would I fly with Air Canada again? Absolutely. However, I’m aware of the numerous negative reviews on Tripadvisor that reflect a different experience, and I can’t help but wonder if I simply got lucky this time. Perhaps the economy class experience is less favorable, or maybe Air Canada has improved its service recently.

FAQ

What should I expect from Air Canada’s business class?

Air Canada’s business class features comfortable seating, quality in-flight dining, and attentive service. While experiences may vary, many travelers report positive experiences, especially regarding food and seat comfort.

Are Air Canada’s flights generally on time?

Like many airlines, Air Canada’s punctuality can vary. While my flight was slightly delayed, many reviews mention issues with delays and cancellations.

Is Air Canada a good choice for international travel?

Based on my experience, Air Canada can be a good option for international travel, especially if you secure a competitive fare. However, it’s essential to weigh the potential risks based on various customer reviews.

What amenities does Air Canada offer in business class?

Business class passengers can expect a range of amenities, including noise-canceling headphones, high-quality bedding, a comprehensive menu, and various in-flight entertainment options.

In conclusion, my journey with Air Canada was surprisingly pleasant, and I look forward to flying with them again. However, I encourage readers to share their experiences and insights, as they can provide a more comprehensive understanding of this airline.

 

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