Porter modernizes Dash 8-400 cabins with new seats, lighting

Porter Airlines is refreshing the cabins across its fleet of 29 De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft, with the first upgraded planes now in service.

The full fleet is expected to be completed this fall.

The updates include the latest generation of Expliseat’s TiSeat 2V, a lightweight aircraft seat made with carbon fibre and titanium.

The seats feature redesigned cushions developed to Porter’s specifications, updated tray tables and integrated holders that allow passengers to view personal electronic devices hands-free. 

Seats in the first row have also been redesigned with new tray tables to provide more personal space.

Porter said the seats’ lightweight structure may help reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions over the aircraft’s operational life.

Other changes include LED mood lighting, LED reading lights and new carpeting.

“Our passengers told us that seat comfort is a meaningful part of their experience, even on shorter regional flights. Updating seats, along with other cabin upgrades, will noticeably refresh and modernize the overall environment,” said Kent Woodside, executive vice president, chief operating officer, Porter Airlines. 

“Porter is known for providing a globally recognized flying experience, and we’ll continue prioritizing comfort and genuine hospitality as part of our standards. We are pleased to be the first Canadian airline operating with enhanced Dash 8 cabins.”

Porter uses its Dash 8-400 fleet on regional routes in Eastern Canada and the United States.

The cabin refresh is the latest phase of Porter’s ongoing partnership with Expliseat.

"We are proud to continue supporting Porter as it invests in the evolution of its cabin experience. This refresh reflects our shared commitment to combining innovative seating technology with lightweight performance, operational efficiency and enhanced passenger comfort—principles that have defined our collaboration for several years," said Jean-Francois Tessier, vice president, sales North America, Expliseat.

The aircraft’s configuration and legroom will not change. Porter’s Dash 8-400s have 78 seats, with 32 inches of legroom in PorterReserve and 30 inches in PorterClassic. The two-by-two configuration means the aircraft have no middle seats.

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