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 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 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 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.

 ’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’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 announced:

Dreams Take Flight, Air Canada and The Air Canada Foundation celebrated another successful year of magical journeys to theme parks in Florida and California. This year, more than a thousand children across Canada got to experience a day full of rides, magic and laughter.

Founded in 1989, Dreams Take Flight was created by a group of Air Canada employees in Toronto with a mission to offer children who experience mental, physical or social challenges a trip of a lifetime to a theme park in Florida. By 1997, Dreams Take Flight had expanded across Canada with eight chapters: Halifax, Montréal, Ottawa, Toronto, Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver. Dreams Take Flight is 100 per cent volunteer driven. Air Canada and The Air Canada Foundation provide each chapter with an aircraft, along with additional support and services, to ensure every trip is a success.

The children chosen from different children’s organizations are accompanied by volunteers, current and retired Air Canada employees who provide a magical experience for those onboard. The volunteers, including flight attendants, maintenance engineers, and numerous other employees on the ground and behind the scenes, generously volunteer their time to offer these children the chance to take a break from their everyday lives and create lifelong memories.

Since its first flight over 35 years ago, more than 35,000 children have experienced a Dreams Take Flight trip-of-a-lifetime to Florida or California.

Air Canada made this announcement:

Whether your dream destinations are near or far, they can now stay top of mind! Air Canada and heritage outfitter Tilley have teamed up to launch the limited-edition Air Canada x Tilley Bucket List Hat. Combining Tilley’s storied craftsmanship with Air Canada’s spirit of exploration, this exclusive collaboration puts an innovative twist on an iconic travel hat that’s ready to join you in exploring the airline’s far-reaching network.  

Designed in sleek black and adorned with Air Canada’s famous maple leaf rondelle, this reimagined take on the T1 Iconic Tilley is handmade in Canada. It features 90 dream-worthy Air Canada destinations printed under the brim; a first-of-its-kind print innovation no other Tilley hat has ever featured. The hats are available now at Tilley flagship stores across Canada and online for $109 CAD, while quantities last.

Where Will Your Bucket List Hat Take You?

Every year, Air Canada carries millions of adventurers to the world’s favourite cities and hidden gems far from the beaten path. With routes to cultural capitals like Paris, and Tokyo, and up-and-coming cities like Naples, Porto, and Prague, Air Canada’s network opens the door to more of the world than ever before.

Whether it’s a weekend escape or milestone trip, Air Canada connects Canadians to experiences that stay with them long after they return home. Beginning this winter, discover the colours and flavours of Guatemala and Guadalajara, the rhythms of Rio, and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Peru. And by summer 2026, the airline will add the breathtaking locales of Mallorca, Catania – Sicily, and Budapest to the map, inspiring travellers to dream bigger and collect new stamps in their passports.

About Tilley Endurables Inc.

Founded in 1980, Tilley Endurables is globally renowned for its meticulously designed outdoor hats and apparel. With a focus on sustainable materials and a commitment to lifetime quality, Tilley products are essential for any adventure.

Air Canada aircraft slide show (historical liveries):

The Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), in partnership with the Professional Clothing Industry Association Worldwide (PCIAW), recently held its first ever PCIAW Fashion Show at the APEX/IFSA Global EXPO 2025 in Long Beach. A team of Air Canada employees took this opportunity to give everyone a glimpse of the airline’s long history by showcasing its uniforms throughout the years. This curated runway event highlighted six different eras in Air Canada’s history: 1938, 1953-1964, 1969-1973, 1996-2004 and 2017 to present. Representing each era were Air Canada’s Los Angeles-based employees as well as Montreal based flight attendants.

1938: First era

Representing Trans-Canada Airline (TCA), as Air Canada was known when it was founded in 1937, Kerem walked down the runway proudly showcasing the very first page in Air Canada’s fashion history. “I truly love how fashionable, comfortable, and professional it feels.”

How does it feel wearing the very first flight attendant uniform? “It’s such an honour because it carries so much history. If I had to pick favourites, this one and the blue uniform stand out to me. They’re feminine, elegant, and beautifully detailed. It was a joy to wear!” Although very fashionable, this version of the uniform is the shortest lived in Air Canada/TCA’s history and only lasted from July to October 1938. It was replaced with a similar design; a summer grey version and a winter blue version starting that October until 1949.

1953-1964: Blue era?

Amber proudly represented our … blue era. How did Amber feel about the blue? “I just loved the blue uniform! It was comfortable from the minute I put it on, and its tailored fit really made it stylish.” Her favourite part of it? “The hat may have been my favourite part of this uniform, it truly added the final touch!” 

This Christian Dior-influenced design had a summer version (pictured) and a navy-blue version for the winter season.

1969-1973: Colorful era

Designed by Leo Chevalier, a Québec trailblazing fashion designer, this version of uniforms from the early 70s was definitely Air Canada’s most colourful era – and a visual representation of the seventies cultural era! What did Silvia think of the uniform she modelled? “It was great but wouldn’t want to wear it today!” It was very much of its time, indeed. “I preferred the one Vanessa wore (1973-1978), it seemed very comfortable, more casual but still elegant.”

After the initial launch in 1969, an important milestone is the introduction of pants! It was the first time in Air Canada’s history that pants were included in the uniform. 

1973-1978: Versatile era

Vanessa’s impression of the fashion show? “Walking the runway in such an iconic uniform was definitely the highlight! I felt proud showing off a piece of Air Canada history.” Coincidentally, the pieces she was wearing were also presented and introduced at a fashion show in Vancouver in May 1978. Cosplaying the 70s, Vanessa got to model the most versatile version of our uniforms. 

Employees back then could choose from over 50 pieces of uniform, mix and match and make it their own. The list included a long-sleeved and short-sleeved jacket, five different skirts, two pairs of pants, two sweaters and four different blouses. To accessorize, they had a belt, scarves, berets, toques, folding umbrellas, leather bags and … a rainhat! 

1996-2004: Modern-trend era

This new version debuted at the “New Uniform Fashion Show” on January 29, 1996. What makes this one special? It marked the first time the uniforms of all Air Canada employees changed simultaneously. 

Would Tsige wear the 90s uniform today? “I really liked the dress, it was so comfortable,” she said. Aside from the shoulder pads, which are very much of their time, this version of the uniform was a very modern look for Air Canada.  

2017-present: True-to-brand era

And finally, our current uniform! Imagined by Canadian designer Christopher Bates, it was recognized with a few awards including the NAUMD 2018 Best of the Best Award for Outstanding Uniform Design and the PCIAW 2018 Award for Outstanding Corporate Design. How was it for Veronique to represent her own uniform in the fashion show? “Walking to the stage representing the actual Air Canada uniform, it was an honour for me. This was a wonderful and fulfilling experience.”

These weren’t just uniforms. They were symbols of adventure, ambition and grace. Each look carried the legacy of those who wore them with pride. The show was a celebration of history, of fashion, and of the people who made it iconic. To bring them out of the archives was a very special moment for everyone involved and it was an important one: Because some symbols deserve to be remembered forever.

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Air Canada aircraft photo gallery (historic liveries):

Air Canada aircraft slide show (historic liveries):