Thank you for all your feedback. At least it is somewhat comforting to hear I am not the only one who fell into this "trap".
Originally Posted by
canadiancow
Are you sure?
This general topic has been a long-standing complaint about booking "Flex" on UA, etc., where one expected 100% AQM and other features of "Flex".
But they were generally pretty good about stating "on flights operated by Air Canada".
The fact that you, as one of the most knowledgable AC FTers, ask and not simply say, you are mistaken makes me quite confident that it does not say so anywhere on the booking site. In fact, I just did a dummy booking and net to the LH segment it clearly states "Make changes and choose your seat at no charge. Enjoy priority check-in, baggage handling and boarding, and earn 125% Aeroplan points and Status Qualifying Miles. This is a fully refundable fare."
I checked the entire site and could not find any disclaimer. I will call AC some time next week when I have a minute and report back.