Say Goodbye to Outdated Flights: Air Canada’s Game-Changing Fleet Upgrade Will Leave You in Awe!

Published on November 24, 2025

Air Canada has just unveiled an exciting, industry-defining fleet overhaul set to completely transform the flying experience across North America. Whether you’re flying from Canada to the U.S. or taking a regional hop, this comprehensive upgrade promises to offer unrivaled comfort, cutting-edge technology, and seamless connectivity throughout the airline’s entire network.

Air Canada Fleet Upgrade: A New Era of Travel Comfort

The carrier’s latest cabin renewal programme is the most ambitious in its history. It covers not only Air Canada’s mainline fleet but also its regional subsidiary, Air Canada Express, and low-cost arm, Air Canada Rouge. Passengers can look forward to a new generation of aircraft interiors, equipped with personal entertainment systems, reclining seats, and high-speed Wi-Fi, all designed to elevate the flying experience across North America.

Say Goodbye to Outdated Flights: Welcome to Modern Travel

One of the most exciting features of this upgrade is the introduction of “Fast, Free Wi-Fi” on all North American flights. This service will be available for all Aeroplan members and promises a hassle-free, connected journey. In addition to free Wi-Fi, passengers will also enjoy advanced in-flight entertainment, ensuring that every aspect of the journey, from boarding to landing, is both enjoyable and efficient.

Air Canada’s Bold Move: MAX 8 Planes to Transition to Rouge by 2026

As part of this ambitious fleet upgrade, Air Canada has announced that its Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft will be transferred to its low-cost subsidiary, Air Canada Rouge, by 2026. These planes, which currently serve Air Canada’s mainline routes, will be reconfigured to offer 12 Business Class seats, 18 extra-legroom seats, and 147 Standard Economy seats, all equipped with the upgraded amenities. This move creates a clearer distinction between Air Canada’s full-service mainline operations and its budget-friendly Rouge brand.

Air Canada Mainline: New Interiors and Enhanced Comfort

For those flying on Air Canada’s mainline routes, the airline is also rolling out exciting upgrades on its Airbus A320 and A321 fleets. These aircraft will be outfitted with the latest interior standards, featuring brand-new seating, improved Wi-Fi, and enhanced in-flight services. This refreshed cabin design aims to deliver a warm, modern, and distinctly Canadian experience, elevating every aspect of the flight from the moment you step on board.

Regional Flights Get a Major Boost with Upgraded Aircraft

Not only will Air Canada’s mainline and Rouge fleets receive a makeover, but the airline’s regional subsidiary, Air Canada Express, is also part of the upgrade. Aircraft such as the Embraer E175 and Mitsubishi CRJ-900, which operate short domestic routes within Canada and across the U.S., will undergo complete refurbishments by 2026. This includes new cabin interiors, upgraded seating, and high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring a superior flying experience even on shorter regional flights.

Additionally, Air Canada is revamping its De Havilland Dash 8-400 fleet, with 25 aircraft being refurbished for routes operating from Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport. Passengers flying on these smaller planes will experience upgraded seating, new cabin layouts, and enhanced connectivity, all contributing to a smoother, more enjoyable journey.

What This Means for Passengers: Unmatched Comfort and Connectivity

This fleet overhaul is all about creating a seamless and consistent flying experience across Air Canada’s entire network. Whether you’re traveling within Canada or crossing the border into the U.S., you can expect modern, comfortable seats, top-tier in-flight entertainment, and a fast and reliable internet connection. With the addition of free Wi-Fi on North American routes and more than 50% of the fleet already equipped with Wi-Fi, Air Canada is making sure that passengers are more connected than ever before.

Timeline for the Fleet Upgrade: A Long-Term Investment in Passenger Experience

While the fleet renewal programme is a major step forward, the full benefits won’t be immediate. Air Canada has announced that the upgrade will roll out over several years, with the majority of the fleet expected to be refreshed by 2026. This phased approach means that passengers will see improvements gradually, with some aircraft already outfitted with the new interiors, and others scheduled for retrofitting in the coming years.

Air Canada Rouge: The New Standard for Leisure Travel

As part of the fleet changes, Air Canada’s 737 MAX 8 planes will transition to Air Canada Rouge, creating a clear distinction between the airline’s full-service offerings and its leisure-focused operations. This move is expected to enhance the customer experience on leisure routes, with newer aircraft offering upgraded features at affordable prices. The integration of these advanced planes into the Rouge brand ensures that passengers flying on budget-friendly routes will still enjoy modern amenities, including reclining seats, in-flight entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

Air Canada’s Commitment to Elevating the North American Travel Experience

By committing to this major fleet upgrade, Air Canada is setting a new standard for air travel across North America. The airline’s dedication to improving passenger comfort, connectivity, and overall travel experience is evident in every aspect of the fleet overhaul. From free Wi-Fi and modern interiors to enhanced regional flights, Air Canada is ensuring that every journey—whether short-haul or long-haul—feels like a step into the future of travel.

Final Thoughts: Air Canada’s Fleet Upgrade Revolutionises North American Air Travel

Air Canada’s commitment to modernising its fleet and enhancing the travel experience is a game-changer for air travel across North America. With upgraded cabins, state-of-the-art technology, and a focus on comfort and connectivity, passengers can expect a flying experience that’s not only more efficient but also far more enjoyable.

As the rollout continues over the next few years, Air Canada will remain at the forefront of passenger experience, offering world-class service across all its routes. Whether you’re flying within Canada or heading to the U.S., Air Canada’s fleet upgrade ensures that your next flight will be a seamless, modern experience from start to finish.