Air Canada Orders Eight Airbus A350-1000 Jets

Air Canada has disclosed a firm order for eight Airbus A350-1000 jets, marking a major step in the carrier’s long-haul fleet expansion strategy and reinforcing its commitment to next-generation widebody aircraft. The order, which had previously been listed as undisclosed in November 2025, has now been formally attributed to Canada’s flag carrier.

The A350-1000 will play a central role in Air Canada’s global growth ambitions. Offering a range of up to 9,000 nautical miles, the aircraft enables non-stop service from Canadian hubs to high-growth markets across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Australia. Its extended range and improved economics provide the airline with greater flexibility to launch ultra-long-haul routes while maintaining competitive operating costs.

Air Canada Long‑Haul Fleet (as of Feb. 2026)

Airbus A330‑300 operating 20
Airbus A350-1000 on order 8 and 8 options, deliveries to start in 2030.
Boeing 777‑300ER operating 19
Boeing 777‑200LR operating 6
Boeing 787‑8 operating 8
Boeing 787‑9 operating 32
Boeing 787‑10 on order 14 and 12 options, deliveries from 2026 until 2030.

Air Canada executives said the aircraft represents a natural evolution of the airline’s fleet modernization plan. The A350-1000’s advanced aerodynamics, lightweight composite structure, and fuel-efficient engines are expected to deliver approximately 25 percent lower fuel burn and emissions compared to previous-generation widebody aircraft. The aircraft is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, designed specifically for the A350 platform to optimize performance and efficiency.

Passenger experience is also central to the fleet upgrade. The A350-1000 features Airbus’ Airspace cabin, offering lower cabin altitude, reduced noise levels, and improved air quality to enhance comfort on ultra-long-haul flights. The aircraft will support the continued development of Air Canada’s premium product, aligning with the carrier’s focus on long-haul international connectivity.

Sustainability remains a key component of the program. The A350 is already certified to operate with up to 50 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel, and Airbus is targeting full 100 percent SAF capability by 2030. As airlines face mounting environmental pressures, the introduction of more efficient widebody aircraft is viewed as critical to reducing carbon intensity per seat.

At the end of January 2026, the A350 Family had accumulated more than 1,500 orders from 67 customers worldwide, underscoring strong global demand for the type. For Air Canada, the addition of the A350-1000 strengthens its competitive position in the long-haul market while supporting its strategy to connect Canada more seamlessly with key international destinations.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, airbus.com