The Future of Flying with Air Canada: Premium Amenities, Modern Aircraft, and a New Look for 2026

Published on November 21, 2025

With each passing day, Air Canada improves the travel experience of its customers in North America. To reach that goal, Air Canada has started to update its fleet. With that update, the airline can offer its customers a more comfortable travel experience and new ways to stay connected during flights and well as new ways to make traveling more convenient. This new update will be available across all flights.

The Transition to a Modern Boeing 737 MAX Fleet

One of the most notable changes is Air Canada Rouge’s transition to an all-Boeing 737 MAX 8 fleet. By 2026, all current Rouge aircraft will be replaced with these modern jets, featuring updated cabins designed to improve both comfort and entertainment. The 737 MAX will feature a refreshed layout, offering 12 Business Class seats, 18 Economy seats with extra legroom, and 147 Standard Economy seats. Every seat will now recline, a significant upgrade for long-haul flights. Passengers will also have access to personal on-demand entertainment systems and, notably, the airline’s new high-speed Wi-Fi.

This upgrade ensures that passengers will experience a higher level of service with seamless connectivity at no extra cost. Additionally, this initiative includes a crew base expansion in Vancouver, providing more options for leisure travelers flying from Western Canada.

Air Canada Mainline: Bringing More Comfort with Every Flight

Air Canada’s mainline fleet is also receiving a significant boost in terms of cabin comfort. All Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, part of the airline’s core fleet, will undergo upgrades that align with Air Canada’s latest interior standards. The new cabins will boast modern seating, refreshed in-flight entertainment systems, and the installation of the airline’s advanced Fast, Free Wi-Fi service. This is designed to ensure that passengers on Air Canada’s flagship flights receive a top-tier travel experience.

In addition to the technical improvements, the cabins will feature a distinctly Canadian aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the country’s natural beauty. This new design philosophy aims to provide a warm and sophisticated environment that represents the essence of Canada, enhancing the in-flight atmosphere.

The Growth of Air Canada’s A220 Fleet

The Airbus A220, a game-changing aircraft known for its comfort, technology, and efficiency, is a crucial part of Air Canada’s strategy. Already a fan-favorite among passengers, the A220 is made in Quebec, and the airline has placed an order for an additional 26 A220-300 units. Starting in March 2026, these new aircraft will incorporate Air Canada’s upgraded design standards, including larger overhead bins to offer more cabin space. This ongoing fleet expansion will allow Air Canada to provide even more comfort on short- and medium-haul routes across North America.

Upgrades for Air Canada Express Passengers

The fleet improvements extend beyond Air Canada’s mainline aircraft. Air Canada Express, operated by Jazz, will also undergo major changes. Starting in 2026, the regional aircraft, including the Embraer E175 and Mitsubishi CRJ-900, will be fitted with the airline’s updated cabin design. Passengers can look forward to enhanced seating, modern interiors, and the introduction of next-generation Fast, Free Wi-Fi on more flights.

Along with these upgrades, 25 De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft, frequently used for regional routes, will undergo a complete redesign. New seats and improved interiors will be installed to make each flight more comfortable, while upgraded Wi-Fi will ensure that passengers can stay connected at all times.

Elevating the Onboard Experience with Complimentary Snacks and Drinks

Air Canada is also enhancing the in-flight service for all passengers, including those flying with Air Canada Rouge and Air Canada Express. On all flights across North America, travelers can enjoy complimentary beer, wine, and premium snacks. This offering includes Canadian-made products, such as TWIGZ seasoned pretzels, Leclerc Célébration cookies, and MadeGood Morning Bars for early-morning flights. Passengers will also enjoy a variety of beverages, all designed to elevate the overall travel experience and keep them refreshed throughout their journey.

A Guide for Travelers

For those looking to take advantage of these upgrades, Air Canada’s new offerings promise an enhanced, seamless travel experience. Whether you’re flying across Canada or to the United States, Air Canada’s fleet improvements ensure that your journey is as comfortable and connected as possible. Here’s what you can expect:

• Boeing 737 MAX: Available on Air Canada Rouge flights starting in 2026, these aircraft will feature reclining seats, on-demand entertainment, and Fast, Free Wi-Fi.
• Air Canada Mainline: Enjoy upgraded Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft with new interiors, premium in-flight entertainment, and Wi-Fi.
• Regional Travel: Air Canada Express flights will feature upgraded cabins and the same Fast, Free Wi-Fi available on mainline flights.
• Increased Comfort: The A220 aircraft and newly upgraded regional jets promise more space, better seating, and a smoother experience.
• Onboard Refreshments: Complimentary drinks and snacks, including Canadian favorites, are now available across all flights.

Air Canada’s dedication to improving its fleet reflects the airline’s commitment to customer satisfaction. These changes not only enhance the comfort and connectivity of the flights but also ensure that every traveler’s experience is memorable from takeoff to landing.

What Does This Mean for Travelers?

As a result of these updates, Air Canada should be seen as one of the leading air carriers in North America. Air Canada will be providing high quality flights for passengers traveling domestically or internationally. Incorporating Fast, Free Wi-Fi, premium snacks, modernized seating, and comforts of air travel, the airline will become more customer oriented. Air Canada will set a precedent in North America and will continue to focus on the customer.

source Air Canada