Navigating air travel during times of grief requires understanding specific airline policies, particularly bereavement fares. Air Canada provides a bereavement travel policy designed to assist those needing to travel due to a death or imminent death in their immediate family. This guide outlines Air Canada’s bereavement policy, helping you understand eligibility, booking procedures, and required documentation during these sensitive times.
Who is Eligible for Air Canada’s Bereavement Policy?
Air Canada’s bereavement policy extends to:
- Immediate Family Members: This encompasses a clearly defined set of relatives. (For a detailed list of immediate family members, please refer to Air Canada’s specific definition).
- Flights Operated by Air Canada and Partners: The policy applies to flights marketed and operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, and Air Canada Express. It also includes flights operated by Air Canada’s codeshare partners, expanding coverage to a broader network.
- Specific Fare Types: Eligible fares include Economy Standard, Flex, comfort, and Latitude. Notably, Economy Basic fares are included when travel is outside of North America, offering flexibility for international bereavement travel.
- Travel Timeframe: Bereavement travel must be booked within 10 days of the travel date and completed within 60 days of booking, accommodating urgent and slightly delayed travel needs.
When Does Air Canada’s Bereavement Policy Not Apply?
It’s crucial to understand the exclusions of the bereavement policy to avoid complications:
- Economy Basic Fares within North America: If you are traveling within North America using an Economy Basic fare, the bereavement policy will not be applicable.
- Retroactive Requests: Requests for bereavement consideration are not accepted after travel has been completed. It’s essential to initiate the process before or during booking.
How to Book Bereavement Travel with Air Canada
Booking bereavement travel involves a two-step process to ensure proper handling and fare application:
Step 1: Initial Contact and Information Provision
To begin, you must contact Air Canada by phone to request a bereavement fare. During this call, you will need to provide essential information to verify eligibility and assist with booking. This includes:
- Details of the Ill or Deceased Family Member: Provide the full name of the family member and your relationship to them.
- Location Information: Depending on the situation, you will need to provide:
- If the family member is in a hospital or residence: the name, full address, phone number, and the name of the attending physician.
- If arrangements are being made with a memorial or funeral home: the name, address, and phone number of the funeral home, including the date of the memorial service or funeral.
Step 2: Documentation Submission After Travel
After completing your bereavement travel, it is necessary to submit supporting documents to finalize the bereavement fare application. Within 7 days of your return, send an email to [email protected] with your booking reference in the subject line. Attach one of the following documents as proof of imminent death or bereavement:
- A copy of the death certificate.
- A statement from the funeral director.
- A statement from the coroner.
- The official registration of death issued by a provincial government.
- A letter from the treating physician on official letterhead or a prescription pad, clearly stating the imminent death of your immediate family member.
Important Reminder: Failure to submit the required supporting documents may result in additional charges to cover the difference between the bereavement fare and the regular fare price. The provided email address is strictly for document submission and not for inquiries or retroactive bereavement requests.
Understanding and adhering to Air Canada’s Air Travel Bereavement policy ensures you can access compassionate fares during difficult times, making necessary travel arrangements more manageable.
