Air Canada Updates Q-400 Regional Aircraft with New Amenities

Air Canada Upgrades Dash 8-400 Regional Fleet with New Seating, Interiors, and Wi-Fi

Air Canada has announced a cabin upgrade program for its regional fleet to enhance passenger comfort and convenience. As part of this initiative, 25 De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft operated by Jazz Aviation LP for Air Canada Express will receive redesigned cabins and new seating. Additionally, select aircraft operating from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will feature onboard Wi-Fi.

“Air Canada Express is at the heart of how we serve Canadian communities. It brings people together, whether connecting families across the country, or linking businesses to the world through our global network. This innovative project is an industry-first, and it reflects the pride we take in serving customers with care and class. By bringing many of the design details and comforts of our largest jets to the Canadian-made Dash 8-400, even our shortest flights can feel special,” said Mark Nasr, Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer at Air Canada.

“We’re pleased to partner with Air Canada on these exciting upgrades to our Dash 8-400 fleet,” said Doug Clarke, President of Jazz – Air Canada’s largest regional partner and operator of Air Canada Express service to Toronto City (YTZ) and over 70 other destinations across Canada and the U.S.

“This investment in innovative seating, refreshed cabin interiors, and industry-leading onboard Wi-Fi reflects our shared commitment to safety, operational excellence, and delivering exceptional customer service.”

Program Details:

• In-flight Wi-Fi: Beginning in October, passengers on select Dash 8-400 aircraft from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will have access to Wi-Fi, the first installation of its kind on this aircraft type. The service will support connectivity for work and entertainment during flights between Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa.

• Seating: The 25 Dash 8-400 aircraft will be fitted with ergonomic seats from Expliseat. Each aircraft will have 78 seats with device holders and tray tables. The seating installation is expected to be completed by mid-2026.

• Cabin Interior Redesign: Cabins will be updated with colours, textures, and tones inspired by nature in Canada, reflecting Air Canada’s brand identity and aligning with mainline aircraft interior design.

The upgrades are planned to occur in phases through 2026, complementing Air Canada’s ongoing connectivity enhancements across its mainline and regional fleet.