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Air Canada to introduce Atlantic flights utilizing narrow-bodied aircraft

Air Canada to Introduce Its First Transatlantic Narrow-Body Flight from Montreal to Palma de Mallorca in 2026

Transatlantic flights set to be operated by Air Canada using a narrow-body aircraft
Transatlantic flights set to be operated by Air Canada using a narrow-body aircraft

Air Canada to introduce Atlantic flights utilizing narrow-bodied aircraft

Air Canada Expands Transatlantic Reach with A321XLR

Air Canada is set to make history as the first Canadian airline to serve Palma de Mallorca, marking its entry into the competitive Spanish holiday market. The airline will be using the new Airbus A321XLR aircraft, which will begin deliveries in the first quarter of 2026.

The A321XLR, known for its long-range capabilities, can fly up to 4,700 nautical miles and carry 182 passengers. This narrow-body aircraft will bring premium amenities previously exclusive to wide-body aircraft to Air Canada's passengers.

Starting from June 2026, Air Canada will operate four weekly flights on the Montreal-Palma de Mallorca route, with the first flight scheduled for June 17, 2026. The airline also plans to add more routes from Toronto, Ottawa, and Halifax as additional A321XLR aircraft join the fleet.

The business class configuration on the A321XLR includes 14 signature class seats, offering passengers a comfortable and luxurious experience. The economy class configuration includes 168 seats, significantly fewer than typical A380s or Boeing 777s serving transatlantic routes.

Seats for all three routes (Montreal-Palma de Mallorca, Montreal-Toulouse, Montreal-Edinburgh) are available for purchase through Air Canada's website and travel agents. The Montreal-Toulouse service connects two francophone cities year-round, while the Edinburgh route operates seasonally with an enhanced product offering compared to previous aircraft.

The A321XLR allows airlines to serve previously unprofitable routes with smaller aircraft, potentially connecting smaller cities directly. The aircraft's range capabilities enable transatlantic flights while maintaining the operational flexibility and lower costs associated with single-aisle aircraft.

The A321XLR features lie-flat seats in business class, a first for Air Canada's narrow-body fleet. It also boasts updated interior aesthetics, marking a new era in Air Canada's cabin design standards, influencing future aircraft deliveries.

By introducing the A321XLR, Air Canada is demonstrating its commitment to providing passengers with a comfortable and efficient travel experience, while also expanding its reach to new destinations. The airline will also deploy A321XLRs on existing Montreal to Toulouse and Montreal to Edinburgh routes.

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