Here's how Air Canada and WestJet are updating policies amid coronavirus

Air Canada and WestJet have updated their policies surrounding passengers’ ability to change or cancel their flights amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Air Canada, passengers that purchased tickets before March 4, 2020, for travel before April 30, 2020, can make a one-time change to their plan without having to pay a change fee up to 24 hours before their departure.

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They can also terminate their bookings and receive credits for the monetary value to put toward future travel.

“In both cases, any fare difference will apply, any residual value resulting from a lower fare will be lost, and all travel must be completed by December 31, 2020,” the website explains.

Customers can make these alterations online, with their travel agent, or by calling Air Canada Reservations at 1-888-247-2262.

The policy also extends to Aeroplan Flight Reward bookings. However, customers are required to contact Aeroplan regarding any changes they would like to make to their reservation.

Similarly, for all new bookings made between March 3 and March 31, 2020, WestJet passengers are entitled to a one-time change fee waiver, according to an update on their website.

Like Air Canada, the waiver is suitable for any itinerary change made over 24 hours before departure.

The online tool is currently charging the change fee, but the company is working to resolve the issue.

WestJet call centre wait-times are high, so the company advises passengers to contact them only if their travel is scheduled within the next 72 hours.

It is important to note that cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice will incur the change and cancel fees.