April 14, 2026
Air Canada unveiled new interiors and business-class seats for two aircraft types, calling the redesign the first major expression of its “Glowing Hearted” design standard and refreshed customer service approach.
The new business-class product, branded Air Canada Signature Class, will debut this summer on the single-aisle Airbus A321XLR — the carrier’s first lie-flat seats on a single-aisle jet — and will later be fitted on its forthcoming Boeing 787-10 fleet.
Across both types and all cabins, the airline is introducing larger overhead bins; ergonomic seats with phone and tablet holders; larger OLED 4K inflight entertainment screens with Bluetooth audio; and USB-C and AC power outlets at every seat.
A321XLR
– Layout: 14 business-class seats in a 1-1 herringbone configuration, plus 168 economy seats (36 with extra legroom).
– Routes: Planned for select transatlantic and transcontinental services.
– Privacy: Business seats will include a sliding privacy panel rather than fully closing doors.
– Orders: Air Canada has 30 A321XLRs on order.
Boeing 787-10
– Layout: 42 Signature Class seats in a 1-2-1 reverse-herringbone layout, 28 premium economy seats, and 262 economy seats (some with extra legroom; total extra-legroom count not specified).
– Signature Class Plus: The first row will offer larger suites with a center divider between middle seats that can be lowered to create an open space for companions.
– The airline plans to take delivery of 14 of the 787-10s and position the type as its new flagship.
Premium economy on the 787-10 receives a mild redesign with “privacy wings” similar to newer domestic premium seats from other carriers.
Design and service
Both cabins emphasize a calm, relaxed aesthetic: gray tones accented by Air Canada’s red, natural wood grain, and bronze metal details. Air Canada also said it will overhaul its soft product — service, food and beverage, and amenities — aiming for a “distinctly Canadian” hospitality experience, with details to be announced later in the year.
“This investment is about fundamentally redefining the experience of flying with Air Canada,” said Mark Nasr, executive vice president and chief operations officer. “Details matter: we listened closely to feedback and challenged ourselves to create an experience defined by a strong Canadian sense of place, alongside a commitment to craftsmanship, functionality, and long-term durability.”
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