MONTREAL — Air Canada has introduced the first of its updated Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft at Air Canada Rouge, marking a key milestone in Rouge’s cabin renewal program.

This fleet transition, says the airline, will allow most customers flying Rouge leisure and sun routes across North America and the Caribbean to enjoy upgraded interiors, including personal seatback entertainment, reclining seats and complimentary Wi-Fi with Bell.

According to Mark Nasr, Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer at Air Canada, customers will immediately notice a sense of comfort, care and pride upon stepping onboard the aircraft.

“Supported by award-winning service from co-workers across the company, this renewal program is about delivering that feeling consistently, across every flight. Every update is designed with our customers in mind, as we introduce an entirely new Air Canada Rouge product with cutting-edge in-flight entertainment, Fast, Free Wi-Fi and seats that recline for all customers,” said Nasr.

Alongside the aircraft introduction, Air Canada has also opened a new Rouge crew base in Vancouver. The move supports the airline’s strategy to expand sun and leisure flying from Western Canada.

The investment comes as the airline restores several winter routes from the region, including the return of seasonal service from Calgary to Cancun and Puerto Vallarta.

ONBOARD ENHANCEMENTS

Improvements to the Rouge fleet focus on what Air Canada says matters most to customers on shorter trips: an upgraded cabin, improved technology and comfort. 

Rouge passengers will enjoy complimentary wine and beer, including non-alcoholic beer, along with Canadian-made premium snacks on North American and Caribbean flights. The snack lineup highlights several Canadian brands, including MadeGood Morning Bars on morning flights before 10 a.m., TWIGZ pretzels and Leclerc Célébration cookies.

Cabins on the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft will feature three seating options: 12 Business Class seats, 18 Preferred seats offering extra space and 147 standard Economy seats.

NETWORK-WIDE MODERNIZATION

Air Canada says the Rouge renewal is part of a wider modernization effort across its North American and regional fleets.

Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft currently operated by Rouge will be retrofitted to Air Canada’s latest cabin design standard in the coming years.

At the same time, the airline is preparing to introduce new Airbus A321XLR aircraft, which are expected to provide longer range and improved efficiency on certain routes.

Regional travel will also see upgrades, with Air Canada Express aircraft operated by Jazz slated to receive new cabins and next-generation complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi.

NEW AIRCRAFT ON THE WAY

Air Canada’s fleet transformation extends beyond Rouge.

The airline recently announced an order for eight Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, adding to its long-haul expansion plans.

Meanwhile, deliveries of 14 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners are expected to begin later this year, while the first of Air Canada’s 30 Airbus A321XLR aircraft is scheduled to arrive in the coming months.

Air Canada also continues to take delivery of Canadian-built Airbus A220 aircraft, with 23 planes still remaining on its firm order of 65.