Tag Archives: Air Canada

Air Canada on April 24, 2026 took delivery in Hamburg of its first Airbus A321XLR, a next-generation single-aisle aircraft designed to fly longer routes efficiently and with greater passenger comfort. The arrival of this aircraft, leased from SMBC Aviation Capital, marks an important milestone in Air Canada’s fleet renewal and growth strategy, with a total of 30 A321XLR aircraft (15 will be leased, 15 are being acquired directly from Airbus S.A.S.) expected to enter the fleet over the coming years.

The A321XLR furthers Air Canada’s ability to serve new transcontinental and transatlantic city pairs.

The new Glowing Hearted cabin standard makes its debut on the A321XLR, offering calm, comfort and connectivity to customers. It features personal device power at every seat, fast, free Wi-Fi for Aeroplan Members, next-generation in-flight entertainment screens that are larger and offer Bluetooth connectivity, and thoughtfully curated cabin finishes inspired by the Canadian landscape and aligned to the airline’s brand and commitment to enduring quality. In a first for Air Canada, the A321XLR also offers Air Canada Signature Class on a single-aisle aircraft, with 14 lie-flat seats.

Following Transport Canada certification and entry into service, Air Canada plans to integrate the A321XLR into its schedule progressively to support growth across its network. The aircraft’s performance and range characteristics are well suited to adjust for seasonal demand patterns and evolving market opportunities.

This delivery is the latest step in Air Canada’s multi-year fleet modernization program, which is focused on customer experience, operational resilience and fuel efficiency improvements versus older-generation aircraft. It reflects the airline’s commitment to prudent growth, continuous product investment, and disciplined execution.

In addition to the A321XLR, Air Canada has announced orders for eight A350-1000s for delivery starting in 2030 and 14 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners. It also continues to take deliveries of the Canadian-built Airbus A220, with 23 aircraft remaining on its firm order of 65. Five Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, on lease, have also been delivered in 2026.

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Air Canada Unveils Next Generation Glowing Hearted Cabins

Air Canada today detailed its most significant cabin investment, unveiling new long-haul cabin designs at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, Germany. The first major expression of its new Glowing Hearted standard, the design delivers a distinctly Canadian experience, emphasizing comfort, care, and connection for all customers on every flight, while signalling the airline’s bold growth ambitions.

The completely reimagined cabins will appear first this summer on the A321XLR, which offers a true lie-flat Air Canada Signature Class experience for the first time on a single-aisle aircraft. The introduction of the new Airbus A321XLR will be a game changer, unlocking new trans-Atlantic routes and allowing Air Canada to offer an upgraded, premium journey across more of its North America transcontinental network. The new cabin design featuring the exclusive Air Canada Signature Plus Suite will launch when the Boeing 787-10 enters service.

Upgrades to the Experience Across All Cabins

Air Canada’s new Glowing Hearted design standard will deliver a range of thoughtful upgrades for every customer, including:

All-new ergonomic seats designed to maximize personal space with built-in tablet holders, and larger overhead bins.
Significantly larger 4K OLED screens and Bluetooth audio available for all customers.
Access to high-powered USB-C and AC power outlets at every seat, ensuring laptops and all personal devices stay fully charged.
Air Canada Premium Economy cabins will also feature new extended privacy wings for added comfort.

Upgrades to the Premium Experience

The cabin updates are headlined by distinct premium products that will be available on the airline’s newest aircraft.

On the Airbus A321XLR:

For the first time on a single-aisle aircraft, Air Canada will introduce 14 lie-flat Air Canada Signature Class seats, setting a new standard for single-aisle comfort on longer journeys.
4K OLED IFE screen (13-inch in Economy, 19-inch Premium Cabins) with Bluetooth audio.

On the Boeing 787-10:

Air Canada Signature Plus, a new and exclusive suite at the front of the aircraft, designed for customers seeking an elevated experience with extra space. The suites in the centre of the aircraft also offer companion seats for use while in cruise.
All four suites include a larger (2-metre/6’5”) bed, quartzite-topped table and a dedicated guest seat, with more space for personal items and a higher wall for additional privacy.
The two centre suites feature a fully retractable sliding privacy panel, maximizing sociability for up to four customers travelling together.
4K OLED IFE screen (13-inch in Economy, 16-inch in Premium Economy, and up to 27-inch in premium cabins) with Bluetooth audio.

Distinctly Canadian Design and Commitment to Quality

The new cabin design is inspired by Canada, creating a thoroughly modern space that evokes a sense of calm.

Key design features across both aircraft:

Air Canada Signature red stitching and bespoke fabrics provide a subtle Canadian touch paired with a palette of greys and stone.
Natural wood grain details are complemented by bronze metal accents.
Leather-grain surfaces and metal finishes reflect deliberate investment in enduring quality, balancing refined aesthetics and durability.

A refined and Glowing Hearted experience:

On the Airbus A321XLR, a backlit canopy of maple leaves for an unmistakably Canadian welcome for every customer as they board.
On the Boeing 787-10, premium customers are greeted by a wave-like entrance monument, inspired by Canada’s waterways and anchored by the Air Canada rondelle cast in bronze.
To be unveiled later this year, the end-to-end hospitality experience will be distinctly Canadian and include upgraded service, food and beverage elements and elevated amenities.

North American Fleet Upgrade Program Underway

In addition to the Glowing Hearted cabins on the A321XLR and 787-10 Dreamliner, Air Canada is also upgrading the interiors on other fleets.

Air Canada’s Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, currently operated by Rouge, will move to the mainline fleet and be retrofitted to Air Canada’s latest design standard, while the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft will transition to Air Canada Rouge in 2026. This will allow customers flying Rouge leisure and Sun routes across North America and the Caribbean to enjoy upgraded interiors, including personal seatback entertainment, reclining seats and complimentary Fast, Free Wi-Fi sponsored by Bell.

Upgrades to the customer experience also extend to the Air Canada Express aircraft operated by Jazz Aviation LP, which will be fitted with new cabins, and are now flying with next generation Fast, Free Wi-Fi.

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Air Canada’s first Airbus A321XLR

Air Canada announced:

Our first Airbus A321XLR lifted off for its inaugural flight in Hamburg and we want you to soar along.

Sleek, efficient and built for long‑range productivity, this jet is ready to go far.

Hot New Photo (click photo for the details on the new type):

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Air Canada discloses order for eight Airbus A350-1000s

Air Canada has disclosed a firm order for eight Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, marking a pivotal upgrade to the airline’s long-haul fleet strategy with an additional commitment to Airbus widebody aircraft. The order was listed as undisclosed in November 2025.

The A350-1000’s economics and lower operating costs will deliver a significant competitive advantage to Air Canada. With an industry-leading range of up to 9,000nm, the latest generation widebody aircraft will be central to the airline’s global expansion, enabling seamless, non-stop connectivity from Canada to high-growth markets across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Australia.

Designed for ultra-long-haul comfort, the aircraft features the Airspace cabin, representing the next evolution of Air Canada’s award-winning passenger experience. Travelers will benefit from the lowest altitude and noise levels of any aircraft cabin to support passenger wellbeing on the longest flights.

The A350 includes state-of-the-art technologies and aerodynamics delivering unmatched standards of efficiency and comfort. Its latest generation Rolls-Royce engines and use of lightweight materials bring a 25 per cent reduced fuel burn and emissions advantage, compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030. At the end of January 2026, the A350 Family had won over 1,500 orders from 67 customers worldwide.

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Air Canada unveils new brand spot as the 10-Day countdown to takeoff for Milano Cortina 2026 begins

Air Canada announced:

As the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games draw closer, Air Canada released today a new brand spot featuring Team Air Canada Athlete Ambassador Tyler McGregor, captain of Canada’s Para ice hockey team, as he prepares for the Games.

Entitled Tyler’s Walk, the spot tells the story of McGregor’s resilience after a life-changing event, bringing to light the obstacles Team Canada athletes must overcome in pursuit of their dreams – and one athlete’s unwavering commitment to sporting excellence.

“Hockey has always been a part of my life, and this is a reminder of the sheer grit and determination it has taken to get here,” says McGregor. “It’s an honour to have the chance to tell my story and shine a light on the passion and hard work that goes into wearing the maple leaf – not just during the Games, but every day.”

“We are immensely proud of Tyler’s Walk, which serves as a powerful reminder that the journey to greatness is often marked by incredible obstacles, and also extraordinary triumphs,” said Martine Boulerice, Director, Brand Marketing – Sponsorships, Events & Quebec at Air Canada. “This campaign represents more than just Tyler’s story, it’s about inspiring Canadians to believe in what’s possible, no matter the challenges they face.”

Supporting Canada’s Athletes from Preparation to Performance

Every journey to the Games is powered by the dedication of thousands of Air Canada employees, on the front lines and behind the scenes, coming together to support Team Canada. Through the employee-driven Going for Gold program, Air Canada’s people are looking after more than 750 athletes, coaches, and delegation members on their journey to and from Italy—so they can focus on competing when it matters most.

This commitment is an immense source of pride for everyone at Air Canada. At each Games, people across the airline’s network work side by side to co-ordinate athlete travel across multiple airports and teams and support the specialized handling of sports equipment and mobility devices. This effort involves more than 10,000 employees across more than 23 airports working in concert to help ensure smooth, seamless journeys for Team Canada. Air Canada has served as the Official Airline of the Canadian Olympic Team since 1988 and the Canadian Paralympic Team since 2007.

Bringing Fans Closer to the Excitement of Team Canada’s Journey

In just 10 days, Team Canada athletes and delegates will begin their journey to Milano Cortina to represent the country at the pinnacle of international sport. Upon arrival at YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, they’ll be welcomed by Air Canada employees at the send-off event, featuring live entertainment, interactive experiences, and moments of national pride before the delegation departs for Italy.

From then, all airports across the country will be mobilized to offer a heartwarming welcome to all athletes and delegation members starting their journey to the Games, distributing a care package to enhance their comfort during travel.

To further connect Canadians to the excitement in the lead-up to the Games, the airline’s Team Air Canada Athlete Ambassadors will take centre stage across a nationwide content and fan engagement program. A series of digital campaigns – including travel guides, behind-the-scenes features, and personal storytelling – will spotlight ambassadors’ routes, favourite places, and experiences on the road to the Games.

In addition, Air Canada will launch a national contest inspired by Team Air Canada Athletes Ambassadors’ most-loved destinations, offering fans the chance to win trips that reflect the places and moments that shape their journeys.

Air Canada prepares to welcome more than 2.3 million customers onboard this holiday season

’Tis the season for making memories, and for more than 2.3 million Air Canada customers, that starts the moment they arrive at the airport. Between December 18 and January 4, the airline expects to welcome close to 130,000 customers a day – surpassing 140,000 during peak periods – in one of its busiest travel weeks of the year.

Holiday Hospitality at Every Step of the Journey

“At Air Canada, the customer experience is at the core of everything we do, and we know that at this busy time of year and with unpredictable weather, holiday travel is exciting but can also be stressful,” says Tom Stevens, Vice President of Customer Experience and Service Operations. “Our teams are here to provide attentive care and help customers feels confident and comfortable throughout their journey. Especially our customers who may need an extra helping hand – whether that’s families with young children, or our customers with accessibility needs.”

The warm welcome for customers starts with our airline agents, there to help navigate the busy terminals – whether it’s directions to restrooms, charging stations, our lounges or simply offering an extra set of hands. And if it’s extra fuel you need, stop and say hi and grab a complimentary festive snack across many of our Canadian airports between December 18 and 24. The team will be handing out a selection of our onboard treats like LeClerc Célébration Cookies and TWIGZ buttery herb and garlic pretzels.

Earlier this month, Air Canada’s team members kicked off their efforts and surprised customers at Montréal-Trudeau International Airport with thoughtful gifts for the holiday season. See the smiles these surprises brought in this holiday video.

Innovations Making Every Journey Smoother

From major investments in aircraft cabins, new technology, and frontline training, the airline continues to transform the Air Canada travel experience. In 2025, Air Canada rolled out upgrades designed to boost comfort and confidence, including fast, free Wi-Fi for Aeroplan Members sponsored by Bell on North American and Sun routes, complimentary beer, wine and premium snacks – including non-alcoholic Heineken 0.0 – and new Air Canada Cafés at Montréal-Trudeau and Vancouver domestic terminals for a relaxed way to grab a pre-flight coffee or snack.

The Air Canada mobile app offers customers day-of-travel updates, with flight status, gate changes, and real-time baggage tracking helping them feel more in control of their trip. This includes a new tool that puts a human face to the hardworking employees loading and unloading customer baggage.

As always, Air Canada offers priority assistance for families, and customers with accessibility requirements. From contact centre agents and gate staff to cabin crews and baggage handlers, airline teams are committed to supporting every customer’s needs – whether that’s helping children travelling alone, assisting with tight connections, or ensuring smooth travel for those with accessibility requirements. The airline’s three-year Accessibility Plan, launched in 2023, guides ongoing investments and training to make travel more inclusive and seamless for all customers.

Seasonal Flavours on the Ground and in the Air

Air Canada is delivering a feast of festive flavours at airline lounges and in-flight. In select Maple Leaf Lounges, customers can enjoy curated regional Canadian favourites, from oven-roasted turkey to Beef Provençale, tourtière du Québec, pomegranate-roasted root vegetables and ragoût de boulettes d’antan. Guests can also indulge in classic holiday desserts such as gingerbread cookies, yule logs, panettone, and more.

The airline is also adding festive touches to menus in all cabins throughout December. On select Air Canada international outbound flights, customers can look forward to:

Economy: Red velvet cookies, and broccoli and cranberry salad
Premium Economy: Hot chocolate, TWIGZ Cinnamon Churro pretzels, and broccoli and cranberry salad
Air Canada Signature Class: Festive turkey roulade meal, cranberry Aperol spritz, and San Sebastian cheesecake with cranberry and orange compote

Beyond festive food and drink offerings, Air Canada is bringing extra holiday cheer to make the journey feel special for all customers. On December 25, children 12 and under on select routes may receive a Lindt teddy bear – a small keepsake to start their journey with a smile. For cozy, fun-filled moments in the air, customers can choose from more than 50 holiday-themed titles on Air Canada’s award-winning in-flight entertainment system, including The Holdovers, 23 décembre, Home Alone, La Guerre des Tuques and The Polar Express.

Raising the Bar on Air Canada Travel in 2026

Beyond the holiday season, Air Canada is looking forward to an exciting 2026, with new routes connecting customers to even more destinations, new aircraft featuring redesigned cabins for elevated comfort, and a range of new customer-focused products and services designed to make every journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Air Canada launches nonstop Service to Rio de Janeiro

Air Canada’s first flight from Toronto to Rio de Janeiro arrived this morning, linking Canada to the picturesque seaside city in Brazil. The seasonal service, offered three days a week, runs until the end of March 2026. A ceremony was held at Toronto Pearson International Airport to mark the occasion.

Air Canada’s Rio flights are operated using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner offering Signature Class, Premium Economy and Economy class cabins. Aeroplan members benefit from free texting onboard, sponsored by Bell.

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Air Canada Unveils Celebratory Canadian Olympic and Paralympic Team Livery Featuring Canadian Athletes Headed to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games

Air Canada on November 27, 2025 proudly unveiled a special livery honoring our Canadian Olympians and Paralympians competing in the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. This bold design on C-GEGC (Fin 940), an Airbus A330-300, features images of Team Air Canada Athlete Ambassadors and embodies the strength, dedication and national pride of Team Canada. The first scheduled flight for this special Team Canada livery is flight AC894 today headed for Milan!

As the Official Airline of Team Canada, Air Canada will once again Fly The Flag, transporting more than 750 athletes and delegation members to and from the Games. The airline’s employee-driven Going for Gold program, further supports Team Canada in ensuring a seamless travel experience for Canada’s top athletes.

Air Canada also revealed today its Team Air Canada Athlete Ambassadors:

Marie-Philip Poulin – Ice Hockey (Beauceville, Québec)
Mikaël Kingsbury – Freestyle Skiing (Sainte-Agathe-des-Mont, Québec)
William Dandjinou – Speed Skating (Sherbrooke, Québec)
Cassie Sharpe – Freestyle Skiing (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Tyler McGregor – Para Ice Hockey (Forest, Ontario)
Ina Forrest – Wheelchair Curling (Spallumcheen, British Columbia)
Alexis Guimond – Para-Alpine Skiing (Gatineau, Québec)
Mollie Jepsen – Para-Alpine Skiing (West Vancouver, British Columbia)

Team Canada athletes will receive:

Complimentary 35K Aeroplan status and 10,000 Aeroplan points for all Team Canada athletes through the Podium Program
Care & share packages for athletes departing Canada, including amenity kits and memorabilia for added comfort in-flight

Air Canada has proudly served as the Official Airline of the Canadian Olympic Team since 1988 and the Canadian Paralympic Team since 2007. This partnership will continue through the 2028 and 2030 Games, with further athlete endorsements planned.