MONTREAL – The Quebec Court of Appeal has mandated that Air Canada pay over $10 million in damages to passengers as a result of a class action lawsuit. This legal action was based on allegations that the airline charged customers more than the price initially advertised for their tickets.

In a ruling delivered on Tuesday, Justice Judith Harvie criticized Air Canada for its "ignorance and laxity" regarding a provision of the provincial Consumer Protection Act. This decision overturns a prior ruling from a lower court, which had determined that while Air Canada breached the law, there was no substantial harm to consumers, thereby negating the possibility for punitive damages.

The lawsuit, which has been ongoing for 15 years, was initiated by a consumer advocacy group along with a Montreal resident. The complainant claimed that he was charged an additional $124 in taxes, fees, and surcharges beyond the fare displayed during the initial stage of purchasing a ticket on Air Canada’s website.

The plaintiffs contended that Air Canada's practices obscured customers’ ability to make informed purchasing decisions, arguing that the airline should reimburse amounts charged over the advertised ticket price. This ruling comes amidst a broader discussion regarding whether the increasing fees and fare classes imposed by airlines constitute 'junk fees' or if they merely provide travelers with more options.

As of now, Air Canada has not responded to inquiries seeking comments regarding the court's decision. The ruling is significant in the ongoing debate about consumer rights and transparency in the airline industry.

This development marks a pivotal moment for both the airline and the passengers affected by these additional charges, highlighting the need for clearer pricing structures in the competitive travel market.