Air Canada is launching cabin upgrades with a refresh program that will improve consistency and expand connectivity across its North American operations. The initiative involves the airline’s mainline, Rouge and Express services and comes as Air Canada continues to climb industry rankings, recently rising to 19th in Skytrax’s World’s Top Airlines, up from 29th last year.
Refresh Program: Free Wi-Fi, Expanded Legroom and Complimentary Drinks
Part of the refresh program, unveiled as Air Canada earned 20th place on the global safest-airlines ranking, is the transition of Air Canada Rouge to an all-Boeing 737 MAX fleet beginning in 2026. These aircraft will feature redesigned interiors with 12 business-class seats, expanded legroom options and seat-back entertainment throughout the cabin. Rouge flights will also offer fast, free Wi-Fi for Aeroplan members, supported by a partnership with Bell. A new Rouge crew base will open in Vancouver to support the expansion. Air Canada provides services directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the U.S and internationally on six continents.
Air Canada’s mainline Airbus A320 and A321 jets will undergo interior upgrades as they move fully into the mainline operation. The redesign includes new seating, updated entertainment systems and the carrier’s latest cabin aesthetic, described as modern and Canadian-inspired.
The airline is also continuing to grow its Airbus A220 program, with 26 A220-300s on order. New deliveries beginning in March 2026 will include roomier XL overhead bins and the updated design standard.
Regional passengers will see similar improvements: Air Canada Express aircraft operated by Jazz will receive updated cabins and next-generation Wi-Fi beginning in 2026. Previously announced upgrades to 25 De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft, including new seating and interiors, remain underway.
In addition to cabin updates, Air Canada will introduce complimentary beer, wine and snacks, as well as Pretzels and Canadians favourites, on all North American flights across its three brands.
Air Canada has also recently announced its upcoming aircraft A321XLR, that is set to significantly expand the airline’s transatlantic capabilities, with Halifax among the first Canadian cities to welcome the long-range aircraft. Designed to operate routes traditionally flown by larger wide-body jets, the fuel-efficient model will enable new nonstop services and greater seasonal flexibility across Europe, including a temporary deployment on the Halifax–London Heathrow route in autumn 2026. Its arrival supports Air Canada’s strategy to reach previously underserved markets while strengthening links to destinations such as Spain, France, and Scotland. With the first deliveries expected in early 2026, the A321XLR will play a key role in the airline’s next phase of international growth.
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