Air Canada takes delivery of first Airbus A321XLR

Air Canada has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR, marking the arrival of a new aircraft type the carrier says will support network growth and new long-haul opportunities.

The aircraft, leased from SMBC Aviation Capital, is the first of 30 A321XLRs expected to join Air Canada's fleet in the coming years, with 15 leased and 15 ordered directly from Airbus.

Air Canada says the aircraft will be used on transatlantic routes from Montreal and Toronto, as well as select transcontinental services in North America.

"Air Canada is building one of the most modern and capable fleets in the industry. The Airbus A321XLR introduces a dynamic new component to Air Canada's growth strategy, greatly expanding our flexibility to launch new international routes and improve our offering on existing markets," said Mark Galardo, executive vice president and chief commercial officer, and president of cargo at Air Canada.

"Equipped with a quieter, more comfortable cabin when compared to previous generation aircraft, this game-changing aircraft will shortly be deployed across the Atlantic from Montréal and Toronto, while also becoming a staple on key North American transcontinental markets."

The A321XLR is a new long-range single-aisle aircraft that Air Canada says will support new transatlantic and transcontinental city pairs while improving fuel efficiency compared with older-generation aircraft.

The aircraft also introduces Air Canada Signature Class on a single-aisle jet for the first time, with 14 lie-flat seats, alongside a new cabin interior standard — dubbed "Glowing Hearted" — featuring updated in-flight entertainment, Bluetooth connectivity, personal power at every seat and complimentary Wi-Fi for Aeroplan members.

Following Transport Canada certification and entry into service, Air Canada plans to phase the aircraft into its network based on seasonal demand and route opportunities.

"SMBC Aviation Capital is delighted to deliver the first of 15 A321XLR aircraft to Air Canada, one of the world's premier airlines. The A321XLR will elevate the customer experience through enhanced comfort and service, while delivering the efficiency and operational flexibility required to support Air Canada's continued global expansion," said Barry Flannery, chief commercial officer, SMBC Aviation Capital.

"We look forward to supporting our valued customer, Air Canada, as they continue to launch new international routes with the A321XLR."

The delivery is part of Air Canada's broader fleet renewal plan, which also includes orders for eight Airbus A350-1000s beginning in 2030 and 14 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, continued additions to its Canadian-built Airbus A220 fleet — with 23 aircraft remaining on a firm order of 65 — and five Boeing 737 MAX aircraft on lease, already delivered in 2026.

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