I just really think it would be nice to leave an option there for the times when people have to do last-minute travel due to family loss/illness. I think what
YOWkid or
Andrew Webber said is what I would I would have liked to have said!
I think part of it comes down to employee empowerment and customer service, also. It's always nice to be able to deal with a customer rep who can make some decisions or offer some advice, based on unique circumstances.
And yes, I don't know how many BF's are really required. I do know some people can't be bothered trying to get one, the process can be humiliating or embarassing to some folks.
Here are the details:
It's easy to reserve
We understand that gathering up official documentation is not easy, especially when flying on short notice. Family members can book Bereavement Fares by calling Air Canada Reservations. Please provide the name of the family member, telephone number, address of the hospital, attending physician, or funeral home, funeral date.
To receive Bereavement Fares at the airport counter, before you fly, family members are required to present a copy of the death certificate or a letter from the attending physician clearly defining the imminent death of the family member. If this is not possible, they can apply for a Bereavement Travel Refund after travel is complete.
Other conditions apply
Prices are available by calling Air Canada Reservations and asking for our Bereavement Fares. Please give the Air Canada Agent the reference number CIC*160/33.
Refunds after travel is completed
When applying for a refund, please submit a completed Bereavement Travel form (available from Air Canada ticket counter at the airport), a copy of the Death Certificate or Funeral Director's Statement, original boarding passes and original passenger tickets. Refund applications must be made within 90 days of bereavement; you can make your application in person at any Air Canada or Air Canada Jazz ticket counter, or by mail to:
Air Canada, Refund Services, P.O. Box 6475,
Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3C 3V2.
Eligibility
Travellers eligible for Air Canada Bereavement Fares are the deceased's: spouse (includes common law as well as same sex partners), child (includes adopted / step / grand / great grand), parent (includes step / grand / great grand / in-law / common law in-law), daughter, son, father, mother (includes legal / in-law / common law in-law), brother, sister (includes step / half / in-law / common law in-law), aunt, uncle, niece, nephew (includes those of spouse and common law spouse), legal guardian (with proof of judgement) and spouse of legal guardian .
All above include in-laws of same sex partner.