Air Canada to remove free carry-on from basic economy
Air Canada’s plan to remove free overhead-bin carry-on bags from its basic economy fares, while still allowing a small personal item, is prompting debate over whether this is sensible price unbundling or just shrinkflation and “enshittification.” Some argue that charging separately for carry-on helps manage limited bin space and keeps headline fares low in a thin-margin, highly competitive industry, especially as rivals like WestJet and U.S. carriers already do this. Others counter that most travelers effectively face higher total costs for what used to be standard service, with added stress around baggage loss, disability needs, and increasingly poor economy-class conditions.
Policy Details & Definitions
- Change applies to “basic economy” fares: free overhead-bin carry-on removed, but one smaller “personal item” (handbag, laptop bag, small backpack) still allowed if it fits under the seat.
- Multiple comments stress that “personal item” ≠ “carry-on,” though some smaller backpacks can count as personal items depending on size and airline rules.
Rationale, Unbundling & “Gouging” Debate
- Supporters frame this as unbundling: pay only for what you use, enabling lower sticker prices and more options for highly price‑sensitive travelers.
- Critics argue prices don’t actually drop; instead, the same or higher total cost buys fewer services (“shrinkflation / hidden price hike”).
- Some emphasize airlines’ thin profit margins and inflation, saying “gouging” is misused; others counter with executive pay and high absolute fares.
Overhead Bins, Checked Bags & Incentives
- Overhead bins are routinely full; gate-checking is common and stressful.
- Many avoid checking bags due to lost/lated luggage, theft, damage, and long waits at carousels—problems several say are especially bad with certain carriers/airports.
- Some think airlines created the bin problem by charging for checked bags, pushing passengers to carry on more. Suggestion: reverse incentives—free checked bag, paid carry-on with guaranteed bin space.
Comparisons to Other Airlines & Markets
- WestJet and some U.S. and European low-cost carriers already charge for standard carry-ons; this is seen as competitive pressure on Air Canada.
- Disagreement over how widespread free carry-on remains in Europe; distinction between legacy carriers vs low-cost carriers.
Passenger Experience, Behavior & Extremes
- Complaints about “gate humping,” oversized roller bags, and cognitive load from complex fare structures.
- Some would gladly trade comfort and amenities for cheaper fares; others say economy is the only realistic option and is being degraded.
- Various tongue‑in‑cheek ideas (standing-room tickets, pay-per-use toilets, luggage-loading for points) highlight fears of ongoing “enshittification.”
- Concern raised about how strict baggage policies might impact travelers with disabilities or temperature‑sensitive medications.