Air Canada strengthens widebody fleet with A350-1000 deal
Air Canada has placed an order for eight Airbus A350-1000 widebody aircraft as part of the next phase of its fleet modernisation programme, reinforcing its long-haul growth strategy into the next decade.
Deliveries of the additional aircraft are scheduled for the second half of 2030. The agreement also includes purchase rights for a further eight A350-1000s, providing flexibility to support future network expansion.
Mark Galardo, executive vice president and chief commercial officer, and president of cargo at Air Canada, said: “Air Canada’s acquisition of the Airbus A350-1000 will further solidify our position as a leading global airline through the next decade. This state-of-the-art aircraft adds a new dimension to Air Canada’s long-haul capabilities, with impressive range, enhanced payload, and proven economics that unlock new possibilities for long-haul flying for our customers.
“These highly capable aircraft complement our existing fleet by providing flexibility in support of a growing, resilient, and diversified future network. The Airbus A350-1000 will play a central role in defining Air Canada’s next era, connecting our customers, our hubs, and our country to the world.”
The A350-1000 order builds on a broader fleet renewal programme. Air Canada is expecting 14 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner aircraft to begin entering service later this year, while the first of its 30 Airbus A321XLR jets are due in the coming months.
The carrier also continues to take delivery of the Canadian-assembled Airbus A220, with 23 aircraft remaining from its firm order of 65. In addition, five leased Boeing 737 MAX aircraft are expected to enter service in 2026.
John Di Bert, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Air Canada, said: “The addition of the Airbus A350-1000 to our fleet is a forward-looking investment that strengthens Air Canada’s long-term cost efficiency.
“These aircraft will deliver improved operating economics, enhance our operational reliability, and ensure we remain competitive across our global network. The aircraft’s lighter materials and advanced engines deliver meaningful fuel-burn improvements versus the aircraft they replace, supporting our financial and environmental objectives.
“This order is another step in the modernisation of our fleet and is aligned with our capital allocation priorities and our target to maintain capital investments at or below 12% of revenues.”
Powered by the XWB97 engine from Rolls-Royce and incorporating advanced lightweight materials, the A350-1000 is estimated by Airbus to deliver up to a 25% reduction in fuel consumption compared to previous-generation aircraft, supporting both economic and environmental performance targets.
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