Air Canada has unveiled its most ambitious cabin renewal program to date, a multi-year initiative designed to significantly upgrade the travel experience for passengers flying across North America. The comprehensive plan, announced on November 20, 2025, will see modernized aircraft, new interiors, and enhanced connectivity across its mainline, Rouge, and Express fleets.
A New Era for Air Canada Rouge
The most significant change involves a strategic fleet transition. All Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft currently in Air Canada's mainline fleet will be moved to its leisure carrier, Air Canada Rouge, through 2026. This shift will transform Rouge into a modern, all-Boeing 737 MAX fleet. The updated Rouge cabins will be a major step up, featuring 177 seats configured into 12 in Business Class, 18 in Preferred Economy with extra legroom, and 147 in Standard Economy.
Critically, every single seat on these aircraft will be a recliner and will come equipped with a personal, on-demand entertainment screen. Furthermore, Fast, Free Wi-Fi, sponsored by Bell, will be available to all Aeroplan members. To support this expanded operation, a new Rouge crew base will be established in Vancouver, providing more travel options for leisure travelers from Western Canada.
Mainline and Regional Fleet Enhancements
Concurrently, the airline's mainline service will also see substantial improvements. All Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft will be consolidated under the mainline brand and will receive comprehensive cabin upgrades. These renovations will include new seating, the latest in-flight entertainment systems, and the upgraded Fast, Free Wi-Fi.
These aircraft will reflect Air Canada's new design standard, described as a distinctly Canadian aesthetic that is modern, accessible and warm. The upgrade program is already in progress, with 15 Airbus A321s already flying with the new interiors.
The customer experience uplift extends to regional travel with Air Canada Express. Aircraft operated by Jazz, including the Embraer E175 and Mitsubishi CRJ-900, will be fitted with the new cabin standard starting in 2026. Next-generation Fast, Free Wi-Fi is already being rolled out across this fleet, with 55% of the aircraft already completed. This is in addition to previously announced upgrades for 25 De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft.
Investment in the Airbus A220
Air Canada also confirmed its continued commitment to its Airbus A220 fleet, an aircraft designed and built in Quebec. The airline has an additional 26 Airbus A220-300s on order. Future deliveries, starting in March 2026, will feature the new design standard and include Airbus's larger XL overhead bins for increased passenger convenience.
This sweeping renewal program represents a significant investment by Canada's flagship carrier, aiming to deliver a more comfortable, connected, and consistent travel experience for every passenger flying within North America.
