✈️ Plan Your Perfect Escape
Toronto to Cancun Flights Made Easy
Dreaming of white sand beaches while stuck in a Toronto snowstorm? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Canadians swap their snow boots for sunblock, and a quick flight from Toronto to Cancun is one of the easiest ways to make that sunny dream come true.
But let’s be honest—finding the right flight can feel like navigating a travel maze. Prices change daily, airlines offer wildly different experiences, and it’s tough to know whether to book now or hold out for a better deal. And if you’re planning last-minute or on a tight budget, the pressure only increases.
That’s exactly why we built this guide—to take the stress out of your search. Whether you’re booking early or flying out next week, our expert-curated content covers everything you need to know, including:
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Which airlines offer direct flights from Toronto to Cancun and how they compare -
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Monthly price trends to help you book smart and save -
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Live data on flight durations, delays, airport weather, and more -
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Insider travel tips, loyalty point hacks, and hidden booking strategies -
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Real traveler reviews and sample itineraries for every travel style
And here’s the best part: this guide is constantly updated using live flight data, travel-sourcing tools, and feedback from frequent flyers. It’s not just theory—it’s real, tested, and trustworthy information you can count on.
A 2023 report by
Statista
showed that nearly 1.2 million passengers traveled between Canada and Cancun annually—proof that this route remains a top favorite for sun-seeking travelers.
So if you’re ready to join them, you’re in the right place.
✈️ Overview — Toronto to Cancun Flights at a Glance
📍 Quick Route Snapshot
Looking for a tropical getaway from Toronto? Cancun is one of the most accessible international beach destinations for Canadians — and it’s only a direct flight away. Multiple airlines operate this popular route, making it easy to find a flight that fits your schedule and budget.
Whether you’re escaping the cold or heading south for a winter break, this flight corridor is busy, efficient, and well-serviced by Canada’s top carriers — including Air Canada, WestJet, and ultra-low-cost options like Flair and Swoop.
🕒 Distance & Direct Flight Duration
The distance between Toronto and Cancun is approximately 2,610 kilometers (1,622 miles). Direct flights typically take less than five hours, depending on wind and exact departure/arrival terminals.
- 🚀 Avg. direct flight: 4h 25m
- ⚡ Fastest option: 4h (nonstop, WestJet)
- 🔁 Connecting flights: 8–12+ hrs with layovers
💰 Typical Price Range by Season
Airfare for Toronto to Cancun fluctuates dramatically based on time of year, day of the week, and how far in advance you book. Expect significant increases around school holidays and winter months.
| Season | Round-Trip Price Range |
|---|---|
| ❄ Winter High (Dec–Feb) | $500–$900 CAD |
| 🌸 Spring Break (Mar–Apr) | $600–$1000 CAD |
| ☀ Summer (Jun–Aug) | $450–$800 CAD |
| 🍂 Fall Shoulder (Sep–Nov) | $350–$600 CAD |
🔍 Direct vs Connecting Flights
Both flight types are common, but here’s how they stack up:
| Category | Direct | Connecting |
|---|---|---|
| ⌛ Duration | 4–5 hours | 8–12+ hours |
| ✈ Airlines | Air Canada, WestJet, Sunwing, Swoop, Flair | American, United, Delta, AeroMexico |
| 💵 Cost | $350–$900 CAD | $300–$850 CAD |
| 🧳 Luggage | One check-through | Recheck often needed |
| ✅ Pros | Fast, simple, direct | Cheaper with points |
| ⚠️ Cons | Higher demand, pricier | Delays, long layovers |
🌅 Bottom Line: Pay for direct if you want your toes in the sand by sunset.
🎤 Real-Talk Example
Brian, a graphic designer from Toronto, chose a $100 cheaper fare connecting through Washington, D.C.
“I spent 16 hours in transit, missed my connection, and my bag arrived 3 days late. Never again.”
🛫 Direct Flight Providers (Air Canada, WestJet, Flair Airlines, etc.)
If you’re looking for the quickest and most convenient way to get from Toronto to Cancun, several airlines offer nonstop service from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Cancun International (CUN).
- Air Canada: Canada’s flagship carrier flies direct several times a week. Known for reliability and solid in-flight service.
- WestJet: Offers frequent direct flights with competitive pricing and decent onboard comfort.
- Flair Airlines: A low-cost Canadian airline offering no-frills direct flights seasonally.
- Swoop: WestJet’s ultra-low-cost subsidiary, catering to budget travelers flying direct to Cancun.
- Sunwing Airlines: Popular among vacationers, especially during peak winter months, offering charter-style direct flights.
Pro Tip: Tuesday and Wednesday departures tend to offer lower pricing—even on premium airlines. Use flexible date search features on platforms like Google Flights to spot trends.
💺 Comfort & Amenities by Airline (Wi-Fi, legroom, food service)
Your in-flight experience can vary significantly depending on the carrier you choose. Here’s how the major airlines compare on comfort and amenities:
- Air Canada
- Average legroom: 31–32 inches
- Wi-Fi available on most planes ($)
- Complimentary snacks and drinks
- Individual seat-back screens with movies and shows
- WestJet
- Average legroom: 31 inches
- Wi-Fi on select planes
- Snack and drink service (meals on longer flights)
- WestJet Connect – mobile entertainment
- Flair & Swoop
- Legroom: 28–30 inches (tight fit)
- No Wi-Fi onboard
- No free snacks or drinks – everything is extra
- Bring your own entertainment
- Sunwing
- Legroom: around 29–30 inches
- No Wi-Fi services
- Basic snack included; meals only on longer flights
- Overhead screens for shared entertainment
Real-life tip: Traveling in January, I flew WestJet and appreciated the app-based entertainment system—just remember to bring your own headphones!
📊 Budget vs Full-Service Carrier Comparison Table
Pro Tip: If budget carriers seem cheaper upfront, double-check baggage fees, seat selection costs, and extras—they can add $100+ to the final price.
👨👩👧 Best Airline for Families, Solo Travelers, and Business Travelers
Not all airlines serve the same type of traveler equally well. Here’s how different passenger types may want to choose:
- Families: WestJet or Air Canada are top picks due to more spacious seating arrangements, early boarding options, and better in-flight entertainment for kids.
- Solo Travelers: If you’re looking to save and pack light, Swoop or Flair can offer rock-bottom prices with flexibility. Just be sure to prep ahead for zero amenities.
- Business Travelers: Air Canada offers Business Class with lounge access, priority security, extra baggage, and productive work conditions in flight. Ideal for work trips on tight schedules.
Personal insight: As a parent who’s flown to Cancun with toddlers, I can confirm Air Canada’s pre-boarding and seat-back kids entertainment are lifesavers!
Choosing the best airline from Toronto to Cancun depends on what matters most to you—whether it’s cost, comfort, or convenience. Weigh your options carefully, and don’t forget to book early for the best seat selection and prices.
📅 Fare Trends by Month
Prices for Toronto to Cancun flights fluctuate significantly throughout the year — knowing when to go can save you hundreds. Based on current fare trends (2023–2024 data from Google Flights and Skyscanner), here’s what we’ve found:
- January–March: Peak tourist season. Expect higher prices, especially around spring break.
- April–June: Shoulder season with moderate prices and fewer crowds. May often sees lower fares compared to April.
- July–August: Summer break means demand is up. Prices spike, particularly in late July.
- September–November: This is your golden window. Fares are typically at their lowest, and Cancun is less crowded.
- December: Early December can offer deals, but prices increase sharply during the holiday period.
💡 Example: A round-trip flight in early November may cost as low as $298 CAD, while the same route during New Year’s week might spike over $750 CAD.
⏰ Day of Week & Time of Day for Best Deals
If you’re flexible on dates, you can unlock surprising savings. Historically, the cheapest days to fly from Toronto to Cancun are:
- Tuesday and Wednesday departures: On average, up to 18% cheaper than weekend flights (source: Hopper data).
- Early morning flights (before 8 AM): Often priced lower due to lower demand and less congestion.
✈️ Pro Tip: Combine a Tuesday departure and a Wednesday return for a short getaway at the best rates. It’s a pricing loophole many travelers overlook.
🗓️ Calendar View of Lowest Average Prices
Use flight comparison tools that offer “price calendar” features, like
Google Flights or
KAYAK.
Set your origin as Toronto (YYZ) and destination as Cancun (CUN), then select “Flexible Dates.”
You’ll instantly see a monthly grid of fares that reveals:
- Lowest average prices per day
- Best value week ranges (e.g., Oct 22–28)
- Trends up to 6 months in advance
🟢 Color-coded heatmap calendars make spotting price dips easy — ideal if your travel dates are flexible.
📆 When to Book: Advance Booking vs Last-Minute
Is it better to wait or lock it in early? Here’s what data consistently shows for Toronto to Cancun flights:
- Best window to book: 60 to 90 days in advance for non-peak travel dates
- Last-minute deals (less than 14 days out): Rare and unreliable for this route, especially for direct flights
- Holiday periods: Book at least 3–4 months in advance to avoid price surges
📊 Stat: According to CheapAir’s 2023 study, the optimal purchase timing for international flights is around 71 days before departure.
👤 Real-Life Tip: One traveler saved over $220 by using a price alert in March to monitor flights for an October departure — scoring a round-trip fare of $312 CAD.
🔔 Pro Tip: Turn on ‘fare alerts’ at least 3 months before your projected travel month. These tools notify you the moment your route drops in price, giving you a competitive edge.
📡 Live Flight Status Tracker Embed
Heading out today or picking someone up? Easily track all real-time departures from Toronto Pearson (YYZ) to Cancun International Airport (CUN) right here.
Use the embedded tracker below to check current flight status, gate info, delays, and arrival estimates:
⏱️ Flight Delays and Cancellation Patterns
Toronto to Cancun flights can be affected by a number of factors—from weather and air traffic to mechanical checks. Based on data from FlightAware, winter months (December–February) tend to see the most delays due to snowstorms, while hurricane season (June–November) occasionally disrupts arrivals in Cancun.
- 📊 Average delay time (year-round): 22 minutes
- 🚨 Most delayed airline on this route (2023): WestJet, due to late inbound aircraft
- ✅ Least delayed: Air Canada Rouge, with ~80% of flights landing on time
📅 Weekend flights are slightly more prone to disruption than mid-week departures, mainly due to higher traffic volume.
⏳ How Long Is the Flight Today?
On average, a direct flight today from Toronto (YYZ) to Cancun (CUN) takes just under five hours—but it varies slightly by airline and aircraft type.
- ✈️ Flair Airlines: 4h 25m (Boeing 737 MAX)
- ✈️ WestJet: 4h 32m (Boeing 737-800)
- ✈️ Air Canada Rouge: 4h 45m (Airbus A321)
- ✈️ Swoop: 4h 30m (Boeing 737-800)
🔁 Connecting flights through U.S. cities like Dallas, Chicago, or Atlanta can add 3–8 extra hours, depending on layover length.
🌦️ Airport Weather Conditions Impacting Flight Times
Weather plays a major role in real-time flight duration and delays on this route—especially in Toronto.
- ❄️ Winter (Dec–Feb): Expect de-icing delays and runway backups
- 🌸 Spring (Mar–Apr): Mild turbulence possible due to changing jet streams
- 🌪️ Summer (Jun–Oct): Watch for tropical storms affecting Cancun
- 🍂 Fall (Nov): Smoothest month, historically, for this route
🔍 Before heading to the airport, we recommend checking live weather conditions for both Toronto and Cancun using AccuWeather.
Whether you’re in a rush or looking to save a few bucks, understanding how long your Toronto to Cancun flight takes—depending on the airline and number of stops—can help you make the smartest choice.
| Airline | Stops | Average Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Canada | Nonstop | 4h 30m | Consistent departure schedule, inflight entertainment included |
| WestJet | Nonstop | 4h 25m | Popular among families; affordable seat upgrades available |
| Flair Airlines | Nonstop | 4h 35m | Low-cost carrier; bring-your-own food |
| United Airlines | 1 Stop (Houston) | 7h–10h | Longer layovers; ideal for point collectors |
| American Airlines | 1 Stop (Dallas) | 6.5h–9h | Flexible rebooking options |
Saving $100 might sound great—until you’re stuck on a 12-hour itinerary with two stops and no free carry-on. Here’s how ticket price compares to flight duration across major airlines:
| Airline | Avg. Price (CAD) | Flight Duration | Value Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flair Airlines | $160–$250 | 4h 35m | 💸 High value for budget-fast combo, but minimal amenities |
| WestJet | $300–$450 | 4h 25m | 👍 Balanced pricing with good comfort and reliability |
| Air Canada | $350–$500 | 4h 30m | 👔 Great for business travelers prioritizing service |
| American Airlines | $280–$420 | 6.5h–9h | ⚖️ Fair for flexible travelers with loyalty points |
When it comes to baggage, not all airlines are created equal—especially on this route. Here’s what to expect for carry-on and checked bags:
- ✈️ Flair Airlines: No free carry-on; carry-on from $49, checked bag from $69
- 🎒 Air Canada: One free carry-on + personal item; checked bags start at $35
- 🧳 WestJet: One free carry-on; checked bag starts at $30
- 🏷️ American/United: Free carry-on; checked baggage from $30–$40
Want to stretch out or fly with your furry friend? Here’s a breakdown of optional extras that matter on long-haul flights:
Seat Selection Rates:
- Flair: Standard seat from $19; exit row from $39
- Air Canada: Advance seat selection often free; Preferred seats ~$50
- WestJet: Standard from $10; Plus seats (extra legroom + perks) from $65
Other Add-Ons:
- Upgrades: WestJet and Air Canada both offer bidding systems for business class upgrades at checkout
- Wi-Fi: Available on Air Canada and select WestJet flights; not standard on Flair
- Pets in Cabin: Allowed by most full-service carriers; ~$50–$125 depending on size/destination
🔔 How to Use Google Flights, KAYAK, Skyscanner for Price Alerts
Want to lock in the cheapest Toronto to Cancun airfare without checking 10 websites every day? Use price alert tools to do the hard work for you. Platforms like
Google Flights,
KAYAK, and
Skyscanner allow you to set custom alerts that notify you when prices drop for your selected route.
Here’s how to use them:
- On Google Flights: Search for flights from Toronto (YYZ) to Cancun (CUN), then toggle the “Track prices” button above the search results. Link it to your Google account and receive regular updates.
- On KAYAK: After entering your route, click “Create Price Alert.” KAYAK uses predictive algorithms to suggest whether to “Book now” or “Wait.”
- On Skyscanner: Set up alerts by clicking the bell icon after searching. You’ll receive daily email updates if prices change.
🎯 Using Rewards Programs & Points for This Route
If you’ve racked up points with Aeroplan, WestJet Rewards, or even American Express, this route is a goldmine for redemptions. Cancun is a popular destination with many direct flights, making it easier to use points efficiently—especially during off-peak travel seasons.
Here are some typical redemption options:
- Aeroplan: Round-trip flights from Toronto to Cancun can cost as low as 20,000 points + taxes.
- WestJet Dollars: Redeem directly at a flat rate (1 WJD = $1) for any seat on WestJet-operated flights.
- Amex Membership Rewards: Transfer to Aeroplan or British Airways Avios for bonus deals.
💬 Example: In February 2023, one traveler booked a round-trip WestJet flight using only 280 WestJet Dollars and paid under $100 in taxes.
⚠️ Hidden-City Ticketing – Is It Worth It?
Hidden-city ticketing is when you book a flight with a layover in your desired city and skip the final leg. For instance, if a Toronto to Mexico City flight that stops in Cancun is cheaper than flying directly to Cancun, you’d book it and deplane in Cancun.
🚫 Warning: Airlines hate this practice and may penalize repeat offenders by canceling return trips or revoking frequent flyer miles.
Here’s when hidden-city ticketing might make sense:
- You’re booking a one-way trip.
- You’re not checking any luggage (checked bags go to your final destination).
- You’re flying low-cost and not attached to a frequent flyer program.
While sites like
Skiplagged help uncover hidden-city options, use this technique cautiously.
🛡️ Travel Insurance for Mexico Flights — What to Know
Traveling to Cancun? Make sure you’re covered in case of cancellations, delays, or health emergencies. Many Canadian credit cards include basic travel insurance—but read the fine print. Also, Mexico requires proof of medical coverage for certain entry circumstances.
Key coverage types to consider:
- Trip Cancellation & Interruption: Reimburses non-refundable flight costs if you need to cancel your trip due to emergencies.
- Medical & Evacuation: Essential when traveling abroad. Look for minimum coverage of $50,000 CAD.
- Baggage Delay or Loss: Covers temporary essentials or stolen items.
📊 Statistic: According to the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association, over 58% of Canadians buy travel insurance for trips outside the country.
Manulife or
Blue Cross Canada for more comprehensive coverage than relying on credit cards alone.
Toronto Pearson (YYZ) – Terminal Tips, Security Wait Times
If you’re flying from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), planning ahead can turn a stressful departure into a smooth send-off. Pearson is Canada’s busiest airport, serving over 35 million passengers annually—and during peak travel seasons, that number spikes dramatically.
Here’s how to navigate it like a pro:
- 🧭 Terminal Assignment: Terminal 3 for WestJet/Flair, Terminal 1 for Air Canada.
- ⏳ Security Wait Time: 20–30 mins off-peak; up to 1 hr during busy slots. Check live wait times.
- 🕐 Best Check-In Window: 3 hours pre-flight; shorter lines 5:00–9:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m.
- 👶 Family Tip: Visit the Kids Play Zone in Terminal 1.
Cancun International (CUN) – Arrival & Transportation Tips
Cancun International Airport (CUN) is surprisingly efficient for a tropical hotspot. With four terminals and direct shuttle service between them, it handles over 25 million travelers a year.
Here’s what you need to know upon arrival:
- 🛬 Arrival Terminal: Terminal 3 or Terminal 4 for most Canadian flights.
- 🧳 Customs and Baggage: Lines best before 11 a.m. or after 7 p.m. (15-60 min average).
- 🚐 Ground Transportation: Skip lobby booths. Book via Cancun Airport Transportation or Amstar DMC.
- 💱 Local Currency: Optional at arrival, but withdraw ~$50 CAD from bank ATM in Terminal 4 for better rates.
Duty-Free Considerations, Lounges & Restaurants
🧊 Toronto Pearson (YYZ)
- 🎁 Duty-Free: The Loop Duty Free – 3L liquor & 200 cig max to Mexico.
- 🛋️ Lounges: Plaza Premium Lounge & Maple Leaf Lounge – Wi-Fi, meals, drinks.
- 🍴 Dining: Toronto Market Kitchen, Heirloom Café, Bar OBISPO.
🌴 Cancun International (CUN)
- 🎁 Duty-Free: Departure shops better than arrival. Visit Dufry.
- 🛋️ Lounges: VIP Lounge in T4 – snacks, showers, workspace.
- 🍽️ Dining: Try Taba Bar, or quick bites from Los Cinco Soles.
Arriving in Cancun — Immigration & COVID/Paperwork Advice
- 📄 FMM Entry Form: Mostly discontinued in 2023, but some airlines still issue. Check updates.
- 🛂 Passport & Return Ticket: 6+ months validity + proof of onward travel.
- 🩺 Health Questionnaire: Not required—COVID coverage in travel insurance advised.
- 👜 Customs Declarations: Max $300 USD in goods tax-free. Random checks may occur.
🪑 Best Seats to Choose on Each Airline
The seat you choose can make or break your flight from Toronto to Cancun—especially if you’re traveling with kids, on business, or simply hoping for a little extra legroom. Here’s what to know about top seat picks across major carriers:
- Air Canada: Opt for seats in Row 14 or 27 on its Airbus A321—a favorite for extra legroom without paying for business class.
- WestJet: The Emerald Seats (rows 1–5) offer additional pitch and priority boarding.
- Flair Airlines: Row 2 offers the most legroom at a budget price—but seat selection costs extra.
- Swoop: Want a window + space combo? Choose Row 4A or 26F for the best experience, though recline is limited.
📶 Wi-Fi, Streaming, and Entertainment Availability
If binge-watching a Netflix series or staying connected midair is your jam, here’s how each airline stacks up:
- Air Canada: Offers high-speed Wi-Fi on most Toronto–Cancun routes; streaming movies and TV via onboard portal is free.
- WestJet: In-flight Wi-Fi with streaming across most flights; selection includes both Hollywood and indie content.
- Flair Airlines & Swoop: No onboard Wi-Fi. Entertainment is limited—bring a fully charged device and download content in advance.
🍽️ In-Flight Meals & Drinks by Class
Food service varies depending on whether you’re flying economy or business—and whether you’re on a full-service airline or budget option.
- Air Canada: Free beverage + snack in economy. Business class passengers receive a full hot meal (think short ribs or pasta primavera) with wine or spirits.
- WestJet: Complimentary soft drinks and snacks. Buy-on-board menu includes wraps, salads, and drinks. Elevate service in premium includes hot meals and alcohol.
- Flair & Swoop: No free food or drink. All snacks and beverages are purchase-only—and choices are limited (chips, soda, instant coffee).
👥 Traveler Reviews: Comfort Ratings by Airline
Always cross-reference reviews before booking to ensure you’re choosing an airline experience that meets your comfort expectations—especially on a ~4.5-hour flight.
✔️ Direct Flights = Time Saved
✔️ Book Early—Like, 60+ Days Early
- On average, booking 2–3 months ahead can save you 15-25% per ticket
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays are typically the best days to find these lower fares
✔️ Match the Airline to Your Travel Style
- Air Canada & WestJet: Full-service carriers with in-flight meals, entertainment, and decent legroom—better for families or business travelers.
- Flair & Swoop: Budget carriers offering lower upfront prices but charging for lots of extras—good for light packers or short stays.
✔️ Use Price Alerts & Calendar Tools
Google Flights,
Skyscanner, or
Kayak.
- Set fare alerts for specific travel dates or price drops
- Use calendar view to spot the cheapest days to fly
- Enable email updates so you never miss a flash deal
🎯 Final Checklist: Don’t Book Without This
- Confirmed passport valid for at least 6 months
- Pre-booked flight notifications with alerts enabled
- Optional travel insurance for peace of mind
- Checklist of required travel documents for Mexico
👉 Download our “Ready to Fly to Cancun” checklist for the ultimate pre-departure prep
1. What’s the average flight time from Toronto to Cancun today?
The average direct flight time from Toronto (YYZ) to Cancun (CUN) is 4 hours and 25 minutes. This can vary slightly depending on weather conditions, air traffic, and the specific flight path chosen by the airline.
For example, travelers on WestJet’s WS266 service often report gate-to-gate travel times just under 4.5 hours.
2. Which airline offers the cheapest direct flights from Toronto to Cancun?
As of , Flair Airlines consistently offers the cheapest direct flights from Toronto to Cancun, with fares starting under CAD $150 one-way when booked in advance.
Other low-cost competitors like Swoop and Sunwing also compete on price but may have higher baggage fees or fewer departure times.
- Flair Airlines: Often the lowest base fare
- Swoop: Competitive pricing, good for last-minute deals
- Sunwing: Includes checked baggage in some packages
3. When is the best time to buy tickets for Toronto to Cancun?
The best time to purchase tickets for this route is typically 6 to 8 weeks before your departure date. According to analysis from Skyscanner, booking during this window can help you save up to 40% compared to last-minute fares.
Here’s a breakdown of when to book:
- High Season (Dec–Mar): Book 2–3 months in advance
- Low Season (Aug–Sept): Deals available even 3–4 weeks out
- Shoulder Season (Apr–Jun, Oct–Nov): Flexible booking window
4. What documents do I need for travel from Canada to Mexico?
Canadian travelers need the following documents to enter Mexico:
- Valid passport (must be valid during your entire stay)
- Mexico Tourist Card (FMM) – often issued digitally during your flight or upon arrival
You no longer need to present a separate tourist visa if you’re a Canadian citizen staying less than 180 days for tourism.
5. Are there any baggage fees or hidden costs on low-cost carriers like Flair or Swoop?
Yes, low-cost carriers often offer cheap headline fares but make money through add-ons. For flights from Toronto to Cancun via Flair or Swoop, expect extra fees for:
- Carry-on bags: Usually $40–$60 (one-way)
- Checked luggage: $50–$80 depending on weight and route
- Seat selection: $10–$30
- Airport check-in: Additional fees may apply without online check-in
These fees can quickly add up—sometimes exceeding the base fare!
