TORONTO — All 29 of Porter Airlines’ De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft are getting an interior refresh.

The first new-look aircraft are already in service, with the full fleet expected to be completed this fall, says EVP and COO, Kent Woodside.

The interior upgrade centres around the latest generation of Expliseat’s TiSeat 2V, said to be the world’s lightest aircraft seat in its category. Refinements include redesigned seat and back cushions, custom-developed to Porter’s specifications, along with updated tray tables and an integrated personal electronic device holder for hands-free viewing. First-row seats have also been redesigned with new tray tables to provide additional personal space.

Other cabin enhancements include LED technology with mood lighting, LED reading lights and new carpeting.

Legroom and cabin configuration remain unchanged as part of the updates. Porter operates its Dash 8-400s with 78-seats, featuring 32” of legroom in PorterReserve and 30” in PorterClassic. The two-by-two layout means there are no middle seats on any flight, a key component of Porter’s marketing message.

Said Woodside: “Our passengers told us that seat comfort is a meaningful part of their experience, even on shorter regional flights. Updating seats, along with other cabin upgrades, will noticeably refresh and modernize the overall environment. Porter is known for providing a globally recognized flying experience, and we’ll continue prioritizing comfort and genuine hospitality as part of our standards. We are pleased to be the first Canadian airline operating with enhanced Dash 8 cabins.”

Porter’s Dash 8-400s serve regional routes in Eastern Canada and the U.S.