Air Canada to Enhance Onboard Experience on its Dash 8-400s with Refreshed Cabins and Complimentary Wi-Fi
Air Canada has announced the launch of an ambitious modernization program for its regional fleet, aimed at elevating onboard comfort and service. The initiative includes a complete refurbishment of 25 De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft, operated by Jazz Aviation under the Air Canada Express brand. Key improvements feature new interiors, state-of-the-art seating, and—as a major innovation—the introduction of fast, complimentary Wi-Fi on selected flights from Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport, marking a world first for this aircraft model.
Mark Nasr, Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer at Air Canada, stated: “Air Canada Express is at the heart of how we serve Canadian communities. This innovative project sets a new industry standard and reflects the pride we take in delivering service with care and class. Even our shortest flights can feel special.”
Unprecedented Connectivity
Complimentary Wi-Fi from Billy Bishop
Starting in October, Air Canada becomes the world’s first airline to offer fast, complimentary Wi-Fi to passengers traveling from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. The service will provide gate-to-gate connectivity on routes to Montreal and Ottawa, two of the most heavily traveled corridors for business passengers.
In addition to internet access, customers already enjoy other benefits at this airport: frequent departures, complimentary premium snacks, free beer and wine, as well as access to the exclusive Aspire Air Canada Café for eligible customers.
→ Air Canada Announces Expansion of its International Network from Toronto
The company is evaluating the expansion of this connectivity to the rest of the Dash 8-400 fleet, while 97% of Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge aircraft already feature state-of-the-art Bell-sponsored Wi-Fi systems, with the goal of completing the transformation by 2026.
Cabin and Seat Refurbishment
Ergonomic and Tech-Ready Seating
The 25 Dash 8-400s will receive new-generation Expliseat seating, padded and ergonomic, with support for electronic devices and tray tables. Each aircraft will retain its 78-seat capacity, with no change to seat pitch. Installation will be completed by mid-2026.
Canada-Inspired Design
The cabins will be redesigned with an aesthetic reflecting Canadian nature, incorporating colors, textures, and tones similar to those in Air Canada’s main fleet interiors.
Regional Strategy and Commitment to Canada
Air Canada maintains commercial agreements with regional airlines, including Jazz Aviation—a subsidiary of Chorus Aviation—which operates flights under the Air Canada Express brand to more than 70 destinations across Canada and the United States. These operations are key to connecting local communities and feeding the company’s international network.
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