Originally Posted by
CanRulez
Preferred seats are free during check-in. (24 hours before flight)
Not true at all. I suspect OP benefited from an IT glitch. Here is what AC.com has to say:
Enjoy complimentary Preferred seat selection:
When you travel on a Latitude fare
As an Altitude Super Elite 100K member** travelling on a Flex or Tango fare, or an Aeroplan Flight Reward
As an Altitude Elite 75K member** travelling on a Flex fare
As an Altitude Elite 50K member** travelling on a Flex fare in Canada or between Canada and the U.S.
Save 50% on Preferred seat charges:
As an Altitude Elite 50K member** travelling on a Flex fare between Canada and an international destination
As an Altitude Elite 35K or Prestige 25K member** travelling on a Flex fare
** Applies also applies to your travel companion(s) on the same booking