If you didn't know before, you know now that all airlines overbook on purpose and Air canada is no exception, because many travelers are rude and inconsiderate and don't bother having the courtesy of notifying the airlines, Air Canada or other, when their plans have changed and business is business.
If you (you in the generic sense) are smart, rather than get insensed, take the overbooking as an chance to get an upgrade, a better seat, compensation, etc, etc. The problem is that most passengers don't bother asking for compensation, so the airlines laugh all the way to the bank!! So instead of getting all pissy with airline personnel, ASK for compensation! Even better, even when you are not bumped off a flight, think of walking up to the gate counter and advise airline personnel, you'd be willing to give up your seat for compensation!
As for Air Canada at YVR, there are all sorts. Nasty employees and very kind ones. I have had experience with both. That's life! I am not excusing them. however, traveling these days is stressful enough and rather than let your blood pressure go up at the time of the incident, take note of everything, names, times, gate area, and even smile a little to the airline employee. You'd be surprised at how far a simple smile goes. Keep a record of all that info and when you've had a chance to cool down, go straight to the horse''s mouth (the execs at Air Canada). You would be surprised at how quick they address your concerns.
If you want to know where to address your complaints, follow this link to their online form:
http://help-aircanada.com/aircanada-...ue.do?lang=ENU
Be civil and polite in your complaints. There is no point lowering yourself to the standards of a rude employee to make your point!
And in case you wanted to know, No, I do not work for Air Canada or any other airline but I do work for YVR in a different customer service capacity, so I can understand frustrations. I am often the sounding board for complaints, just because I am there!
It's unfair to put an airline down because of the behavior of afew. Air Canada is a very good airline with a pretty good track record and it's not fair to diss them because of a few idiots, or because you (generic you) actually don't pay attention to the rules governing your ticket!!!
Cheers
