MONTREAL — Air Canada has unveiled its most significant cabin investment to date, introducing a new long-haul design concept dubbed “Glowing Hearted” at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg.

The next-generation cabins mark a major step in the carrier’s broader growth strategy and aim to deliver a distinctly Canadian onboard experience centred on comfort, design and connectivity.

“From the moment of stepping on board, we’re setting a new standard for how Canadians and the world connect with our brand,” said Mark Nasr, Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer at Air Canada. “This investment in the care and comfort of our customers is a key element of our New Frontiers growth strategy to become one of the world’s leading airlines.”

Boeing 787-10 Signature Plus Suites and Signature Class

CABIN ENHANCEMENTS

The new cabins will debut this summer on the Airbus A321XLR, marking the first time the airline will offer lie-flat Signature Class seats on a single-aisle aircraft. The addition is expected to support new transatlantic routes and enhance premium service on select North American flights.

A second rollout will follow with the arrival of the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, which will introduce the all-new Signature Plus Suite. Located at the front of the aircraft, the suites are designed for added space and privacy, with features including larger lie-flat beds, expanded storage, a dedicated guest seat and, in select centre suites, retractable privacy panels for travellers flying together.

Across all cabins, Air Canada’s upgrades focus on both comfort and technology. Customers can expect all-new ergonomic seating with increased personal space, larger overhead bins, and upgraded in-flight entertainment systems featuring significantly larger 4K OLED screens and Bluetooth audio. USB-C and AC power outlets will be available at every seat, while Premium Economy will include new privacy wings.

CANADIAN INSPIRATION

The design aesthetic draws heavily on Canadian elements, with a neutral palette accented by Air Canada’s signature red stitching, natural wood grain finishes and bronze metal details. Onboarding experiences will also be enhanced, with features such as a maple leaf canopy on the A321XLR and a sculptural entrance inspired by Canada’s waterways on the 787-10.

Boeing 787-10 Economy Class

FLEET UPGRADE

Beyond the new aircraft, Air Canada is also moving ahead with a broader fleet retrofit programme. Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft currently operated by Air Canada Rouge will transition to the mainline fleet and be updated to the new cabin standard. Meanwhile, Boeing 737 MAX aircraft will shift to Rouge operations in 2026, where customers can expect upgraded interiors, including seatback entertainment, reclining seats and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Regional aircraft operated by Jazz Aviation LP under the Air Canada Express banner are also being refreshed with new cabins and next-generation connectivity.

The airline says the Glowing Hearted concept will extend beyond cabin design, with further enhancements planned across onboard service, food and beverage, amenities and digital tools. Investments are also ongoing in Air Canada’s global lounge network, with new and renovated locations set to open this year in Canada and Europe.

Lead image caption: Boeing 787-10 Signature Plus Suite