Air Canada has taken delivery of its first Boeing 787-9, the larger variant of the Dreamliner 787-8 already in its fleet. The 787-8 has proven extremely popular with customers thanks to Air Canada’s upgraded international product, and the new 787-9 will bring additional range and seating capacity to support the airline’s growth plans.
“Air Canada is very excited to take delivery of its first Boeing 787-9,” said Benjamin Smith, president, passenger airlines, Air Canada. “This aircraft’s increased capacity and extended range will accelerate our international expansion strategy and allow us to offer customers more non-stop services to new international destinations.”
Air Canada has already announced two initial 787-9 routes: non-stop service from Toronto (YYZ) to Delhi (DEL) starting November 1 and Toronto (YYZ) to Dubai (DXB) starting November 3. Prior to those long-haul launches, customers will have opportunities to experience the new Dreamliner on select domestic and short international rotations. During August, the 787-9 will operate on certain Toronto–Vancouver (YYZ–YVR) flights, and during September and October it will appear on some Toronto–Munich (YYZ–MUC) and Toronto–Milan (YYZ–MXP) services.
The Boeing 787-9’s combination of improved fuel efficiency, passenger comfort and extended range allows Air Canada to open new non-stop markets and increase frequencies on existing long-haul routes. As additional aircraft of this type enter the fleet, the airline will continue to expand its international network and announce further deployments for the Dreamliner.
This delivery marks a step forward in Air Canada’s fleet modernization and international growth strategy, offering travelers more non-stop options and the enhanced in-flight experience associated with the Dreamliner family.