Air Canada has introduced a new long-haul cabin interior programme at the Aircraft Interiors Expo 2026, outlining upgrades that will be deployed on the Airbus A321XLR and Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner fleets.
The new interiors are scheduled to enter service first on the A321XLR in summer 2026, with the 787-10 to follow. The programme includes revised seating across all cabins, updated inflight entertainment systems, expanded connectivity options and increased overhead storage capacity. Seatback screens will be upgraded to 4K OLED displays, with Bluetooth audio and in-seat power available throughout the aircraft. Premium Economy seating will incorporate additional privacy features.
On the A321XLR, the airline will introduce 14 lie-flat seats in its Signature Class cabin, representing the first deployment of lie-flat seating by a Canadian carrier on a single-aisle aircraft. The aircraft is expected to support both transcontinental and transatlantic operations, enabling expanded route flexibility within the airline’s network.
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The 787-10 will feature a new premium product, Signature Plus Suites, positioned at the front of the aircraft. The suites include extended bed length of approximately two metres, additional personal storage, and integrated guest seating. Centre suites are designed with sliding privacy partitions that can be retracted to accommodate passengers travelling together. Larger inflight entertainment screens, reaching up to 27 inches in premium cabins, will also be introduced on this aircraft type.
The cabin design incorporates a neutral palette with grey and stone tones, alongside woodgrain finishes and metallic accents. Aircraft-specific features include a backlit ceiling installation on the A321XLR and a redesigned entrance area on the 787-10.
In parallel with the introduction of these new interiors, Air Canada confirmed a wider fleet reconfiguration plan. Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft currently operated by Air Canada Rouge will be transferred to the mainline fleet and retrofitted, while Boeing 737 MAX aircraft will transition to Rouge operations from 2026. Regional aircraft operated by Jazz Aviation are also being upgraded with revised cabins and onboard connectivity.
The cabin programme forms part of a broader investment in passenger experience, which also includes lounge upgrades, revised onboard service elements and expanded digital capabilities. Further details on service enhancements are expected later in the year.
