Originally Posted by danielonn

Even with the API information entered they still need to see the physical passport as anyone can enter in any passport# and still it needs to be verified including any applicable Visas etc.

The Flat Tire rule is a case by case basis but for international flights its very had to enforce as the API data needs to be forwarded to the proper authorities 60 minutes before departure hence why arriving 2 hours to the airport no matter if you live 5 minutes or 10 miles away. Even if the flight is an early morning one you can't predict the lines at checkin or at security.

For me I allow 4 hours for International Flights from SFO and 3 hours from SJC and 2-3 for Domestic Flights. I would rather arrive at the airport early and go to the lounge than be told I cannot make my flight.

When we flew to Canada with my Parents we arrived at SJC 3 hours before the flight to verify our passports even we had a connection via Seattle and the same for the return flight to pre-clear US Customs.

On flights from SFO abroad I allow 4 hours before. On my last Air France flight the lines were short and I got right through security. From the car to Air France lounge was 40 minutes.

It does not hurt to call into Air Canada but I doubt they would give your case special consideration especially be it on a discounted ticket and if you have no status or history with the airline. If they allowed everyone to be late then flights would be delayed and if they enforced the Flat Tire rule to everyone then they could lose money. There are special instances but the Flat Tire rule seems to be a myth or more like a Gesture of Goddwill that is enforced on a case by case basis but the airline is not required to enforce it.


Again please let us know the outcome of your situation. Why did you miss the flight? Was there traffic?