I too am continually impressed with AC gate agents. My experiences have mostly been in Atlanta, USA. Gate D11 is opposite the Continental Airlines gate and the dichotomy between the two is amazing. Everything from announcement style to tone of voice gives the impression that the Continental staff wish that the passengers would go away, while the Air Canada staff continually keep passengers and even those people waiting to greet passengers updated. AC staff in Atlanta are quick, efficient and very genuine. I have gotten to know a few of them and I can honestly say that they enjoy their jobs. This may have something to do with the type of clientele this route serves more than anything else.

Air Canada's economy inflight service is pretty good too. C class is fine but on North American flights of a couple of hours - Y is fine!