I lived in Vancouver for 3 years prior to moving to Montreal this year, leaving behind some amazing friends. For this reason, I often travel back & forth between Vancouver & Montreal to visit friends every couple of months. On my recent visit in October, I flew from Montreal (YUL) to Vancouver (YVR) via Air Canada AC311 777-300ER Economy Class Review. I departed from Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) at 18:30 October 24, 2023 and arrived 5 hours & 15 minutes later at 20:45 the same day at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Here is my comprehensive review & guide to this transcontinental flight.
Booking Experience
I started my flight search on October 7, 2023 exploring options through Google Flights & SkyScanner to shop around for the most budget-friendly direct flight. I have flown the low cost carrier ‘Flair’ many times between Vancouver and Montreal, as historically it has been the cheapest option. I was pleasantly surprised when I found that Air Canada was the more inexpensive option for my preferred dates.
After pricing a few options on Google Flights, I booked directly through Air Canada’s website, as I wanted to see if I could further decrease the cost using my Aeroplan points. I was able to book one way Vancouver to Montreal for just $48.43 CAD, using 12,000 Aeroplan points. You can learn more about Aeroplan here. I received a comprehensive booking confirmation via email immediately after payment, which provided my booking reference, receipt and cost breakdown, flight information, baggage allowance etc. The booking process was very straightforward and efficient, and gave me confidence that my upcoming flight would be a reliable service.
Booking Experience: 5/5
Check-in Process & Baggage Allowance
The check-in process with Air Canada was exceptionally smooth. On the day of my flight, I received an email notifying me that check-in was open, complete with a link for online check-in, my reference number, and detailed baggage allowance information. The online check-in process took less than a minute, and I instantly received my mobile boarding pass, easily accessible in my Apple Wallet and/or the Air Canada + Aeroplan Mobile App.
Pro Tip: I highly recommend downloading the Air Canada + Aeroplan app, a versatile tool allowing you to book flights, access your mobile boarding pass, preview seat maps, receive reservation notifications, and enjoy the Rouge Player entertainment feature (on eligible flights). I had no checked baggage as Air Canada allows you to bring 1 standard article (21.5”X9”8 X15.5”) and 1 personal article (13”X6”X17”) so I was able to bring a small wheeled bag & my purse at no extra cost (please note variations exist among flights, so consult your personalized flight information beforehand).
A standout feature of Air Canada is the absence of a weight limit for carry-on baggage, alleviating the pre-flight stress of weighing bags (though it must be light enough for unassisted overhead storage). With just carry-on items and having checked in online, I breezed through the airport, bypassing the check-in desk and heading straight through security at Montreal Airport (YUL) in a mere 15 minutes from arrival to gate. Overall, the check-in process couldn’t have been more convenient or stress-free!
Check In Experience: 5/5
Pre Flight & Boarding
The departure gate for my flight was Gate A50, just a quick 1-minute stroll from the security checkpoint. The central positioning of Gate A50 was a breath of fresh air compared to the usual 15-20 minute treks to smaller gates with limited dining choices. Gate 50 itself has a variety of dining options within a minute’s walk – from the convenience of McCafe and the health-conscious menu at Camden Food Co to fresh sushi at RYU and the grab-and-go convenience of YUL Pizza. With ample time on my hands, I decided to make a pitstop at Archibald Microbrasserie for a pre-flight Caesar (Canada’s unique version of a Bloody Mary). Archibald is a table-service restaurant offering a classic micro-brewery menu featuring burgers, wings, nachos, tacos, and even breakfast and brunch options for those on morning flights. The extensive beer and beverage menu provides the perfect opportunity for a pre-flight celebratory drink.
Gate 50 also catered to practical needs, with two nearby washrooms and a convenient water station for refilling your bottle before takeoff. Prior to boarding, Air Canada kept me informed through email notifications, and the mobile app provided real-time updates. The boarding process itself was efficient, organized by zones. In summary, the pre-flight experience was fantastic, with the central location of Gate A50 standing out as a definite highlight.
Pre Flight Process: 5/5
Air Craft & Seat Comfort
Choosing not to pay for a preferred seat, I was randomly allocated seat 43H, conveniently positioned as an aisle seat on the right-hand side of the plane. The configuration of the Air Canada AC311 777-300ER Economy Class has a 3:4:3 setup. Fortunately, luck was on my side, as I discovered I had an unoccupied seat next to me which was a pleasant surprise considering I hadn’t selected my seat in advance. The seat’s pitch (the distance from one headrest to the next), stood at a comfortable 31 inches, while the width (spanning from armrest to armrest) measured a generous 17 inches – just above the industry standard. This contrasted favorably with the more confined conditions typical of low-cost airlines, where a mere 28-inch pitch is often the standard.
Other noteworthy features included the option to recline the seat back slightly (although I chose not to), and the adjustable headrest added a touch of personalized comfort. During the short journey, I found myself able to enjoy a solid 2 hours of uninterrupted sleep, a feat made possible by the accommodating seat and the considerate dimming of cabin lights during our transit. This combination transformed the flight into a thoroughly enjoyable and restful experience.
Seat Comfort Rating: 5/5
In Flight Entertainment
Each seat on board came equipped with a personal television with complimentary audio & video on demand. There were endless movies (including new releases) & tv shows to watch, as well as audiobooks & music to listen to and games to play. Air Canada has premier collaborations with Apple TV, Audible, Disney+ and Hayu, so there was a huge variety of shows & audiobooks available at my fingertips. During the flight, I delved into 2 episodes of “Bad Sisters” and started “Avatar 2”. The entertainment system boasted an impressive 15 language options, and subtitles were available in several languages, catering to a diverse audience. The extensive and varied entertainment choices, coupled with premier collaborations, earned the in-flight entertainment a solid 5/5 rating. The assortment of options not only made the journey thoroughly enjoyable but also ensured that time flew by seamlessly.
In Flight Entertainment: 5/5
Connectivity
One standout feature of the flight was the complimentary texting perk for Aeroplan members, granting me free access to messaging platforms like Apple iMessage, Meta Messenger, and WhatsApp. As an Aeroplan member, staying connected was effortless and cost-free. Each seat had a well-placed power port nestled between seats and a USB port integrated into the TV, ensuring hassle-free device charging throughout the journey. Various WiFi packages were available which included a $6.50CAD one-hour pass, a $21.00CAD one-way pass covering the entire flight, and even a monthly plan priced at $65.95CAD. I opted for the one-way pass to catch up on work. I found the in-flight WiFi, while predictably slower in the sky, sufficient to get the job done. The tiered WiFi packages, coupled with the added bonus of free texting for Aeroplan members, earned Air Canada’s connectivity services a 5/5.
Connectivity: 5/5
Food & Beverages
On board, there were complimentary non-alcoholic drinks that were served twice. For Economy passengers there were no complimentary meals or snacks, but instead the option to purchase from the Air Canada Bistro. The Bistro’s menu was available as a physical copy in each seat or conveniently in the Air Canada + Aeroplan mobile app. The Bistro’s meal options included Cheeseburger Sliders to Korean BBQ while snack options included Chicken Noodles, Pringles to Twizzlers. The beverage selection included domestic and craft beers, seltzers, an array of spirits, and options for red and white wine.
While the prices leaned towards the higher side, the Bistro offered reasonably-priced combos, allowing passengers to select a meal, drink, and snack for a bundled price of $21.95 CAD. The menu catered to children with options like Mac & Cheese, and offered vegetarian/vegan choices such as the Vegan Chickpea Wrap. My personal choice, the Fruit & Cheese board at $10.95, featured black truffle Monterey jack, brie, and cheddar accompanied by lavash crackers, dried apricot, apple slices, and savory caramelized onions. The cheese was okay and the novelty of indulging in a mini-charcuterie board at 30,000 feet added a unique touch to the experience.The absence of complimentary meal or snack options, while a downside, aligned with the evolving norm for domestic flights. Despite this, the Air Canada Bistro impressed with its variety and taste, accompanied by complimentary beverages, earning an overall rating of 4/5 for Food & Beverages.
Food & Beverages: 5/5
On-Time Performance
Fortunately, our flight experienced no delays, and we touched down in Vancouver right on schedule at our expected time of arrival, 20:45 local time (PST). Punctuality at its finest!
On-Time Performance: 5/5
Cabin Cleanliness & Service Quality
Despite a brief turnaround before our flight, the cabin and washrooms maintained cleanliness and tidiness. Kudos to the Air Canada staff who not only ensured a spotless environment but also added a delightful touch to our journey with their friendliness and accommodating service. Flying with them was truly a joy!
Cabin Cleanliness & Service Quality: 5/5
Overall Impressions of Air Canada AC311 777-300ER Economy Class
In conclusion, my journey on Air Canada AC311 777-300ER Economy Class, from Montreal (YUL) to Vancouver (YVR), was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The seamless booking process, stress-free check-in, and the convenience of the Air Canada + Aeroplan app set a positive tone for the trip. The central location of Gate A50, the comfortable seat in 43H, and the diverse entertainment options made the pre-flight and in-flight experiences thoroughly enjoyable. Connectivity was a standout feature, with complimentary texting for Aeroplan members and well-placed power ports ensuring that staying connected was effortless. The Air Canada Bistro, despite its higher prices, impressed with its variety and taste, earning a commendable 4/5 rating for food and beverages. The absence of complimentary snacks/meals, while a downside, aligned with the current trend for domestic flights. Punctuality was also a highlight, with the flight landing right on schedule in Vancouver, and the cabin cleanliness and service quality further added to the overall positive impression. Kudos again to the lovely Air Canada staff for maintaining a tidy environment and while providing such friendly service!
Overall, my journey with Air Canada AC311 777-300ER Economy Class receives a solid 4.4/5 rating.
Whether you’re a frequent traveler or planning your next adventure, I highly recommend Air Canada for a reliable and enjoyable journey. Explore their offerings, leverage Aeroplan points, and embrace the in-flight experience that combines comfort, connectivity, and quality service. Bon Voyage!
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