Make Flying With Kids Easier With Free Snacks and More Parent Perks

Flying with young kids can be an intimidating prospect, even for the most seasoned traveller. There’s endless packing (diapers, clothes, beloved toys, the list goes on and on), hauling gear, such as strollers, bottles and car seats, and the big one: planning enough food and entertainment to last through itineraries and time zones.

Air Canada recognizes that the journey is part of the destination, and their award-winning service is there to escort you each step of the way. Whether you’re taking a domestic trip or a long-haul international flight, this wingman has you covered, from their updated, easy-to-navigate mobile app to the complimentary snacks from homegrown favourite, MadeGood.

 Tap In and Board On Your Phone

Taking flight has never been simpler with the revamped Air Canada mobile app. Now you can book and track your flight, check in, access your digital boarding pass and manage your Aeroplan account, all in one easy-to-use app. The best part? The user interface is a one-handed design so you can steer your stroller or suitcase and access your passes without missing a beat.

Unfamiliar with the airport? The app also offers navigation so you can effortlessly find your way around the terminal and to your gate. Your luggage is automatically logged and tracked so you can keep an eye on your checked bags. The organization of it all kicks your flight off with peace of mind.

Settle In With Complimentary Snacks

Parents should take advantage of priority boarding for families with young kids, especially if you’re travelling with a stroller. Once you and the kids are settled in your seats, it’s time to tuck in to something tasty. Your little adventurers will love snacking on complimentary MadeGood Mornings Cinnamon Bun Organic Soft Baked Oat Bars—and you’ll love having one less thing to pack. Now offered on all flights departing before 10 a.m., the Canadian-made bars are free of the​ top nine food allergens and an organic option for the whole family. They join the kid-friendly snack lineup that also includes TWIGZ Buttery Herb and Garlic Pretzels and Leclerc Célébration cookies, made with real chocolate.

And while we all know that dealing with a hungry kid is hard, being a hangry adult can take things to new heights. There’s complimentary beer and wine on offer and a wide selection of juices and soft drinks. Air Canada is the only North American airline to feature a non-alcoholic beer, Heineken 0.0.

Need some extra pep in your step? Complimentary in premium cabins and on flights to or from Billy Bishop Airport in Toronto, Greenhouse Ginger Defence Wellness Shots are exactly what you need to boost your immunity. They’re also available for purchase from the North American Bistro menu, joining such nutritious options as snacky Summer Fresh Snack’n Go Hummus and Crackers and hearty Quaker Maple & Brown Sugar Oatmeal Cups. Looks like you’re ready to take flight!

Sit Back and Relax With Top-Tier Entertainment

Perhaps one of the trickiest things about travelling with kids is keeping them busy. A quick online search will bring up tons of hacks to keep tots quiet and happy (think complimentary colouring books, stickers and more). And while we love these activities, they don’t necessarily keep kids occupied for as long as you need. Take advantage of Air Canada’s expanded in-flight entertainment system, where you’ll find endless family-friendly options.

Choose from over 4,000 hours of entertainment, including complimentary TV shows and movies, and over 200 podcasts, playlists, audiobooks and more. There’s no shortage of big-screen hits and binge-worthy shows. You can also access live broadcasts of news and sporting events on flights within Canada and the U.S., so you won’t miss the big game or evening headlines.  There’s something for everyone right at your fingertips.

Time for Touchdown

Before you know it, you’ll be preparing for a smooth landing. Have a connecting flight to catch? No problem. The Air Canada mobile app will have all the up-to-date info. The app will also tell you exactly which carousel to head to so you can spend less time looking for luggage and more time taking in the local sights.

Eliminate some of the packing and planning and enjoy hassle-free travel by booking an Air Canada experience. From booking to takeoff to landing—and everything in between—families can indulge in complimentary snacks and wholesome entertainment for tots, toddlers, tweens and teens. That way, parents can land just a little bit more refreshed and ready. Just a heads up: you may not hear “Are we there yet?” as much as you’re used to.

Learn more about Air Canada's award-winning service for families by visiting aircanada.com.