The first of 45 upgraded Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets has moved from Air Canada to its subsidiary low-cost leisure carrier Air Canada Rouge, as part of a major fleet shakeup.
Air Canada first announced plans to switch its Boeing 737 MAX single-aisle jets to Air Canada Rouge in December 2024, signaling the start of a new era.
As part of the transfer, each 737-8 is undergoing an update, with the refurbished 737 MAX aircraft featuring personal seatback entertainment, reclining seats and free Wi-Fi, sponsored by Bell.
On March 5, 2026, Air Canada confirmed that the first of its updated Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft had entered service at Air Canada Rouge.
“This marks the latest milestone in Rouge’s comprehensive cabin renewal program, focused on delivering a more comfortable, connected, and consistent onboard experience,” Air Canada said.
The Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft currently operated by Rouge will in turn be retrofitted to Air Canada’s latest design standard and transitioned across.
“When customers step onto our aircraft, they should instantly feel a sense of comfort, care, and pride,” said Mark Nasr, Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer at Air Canada. “Supported by award-winning service from co-workers across the company, this renewal program is about delivering that feeling consistently, across every flight.”
He added: “Every update is designed with our customers in mind, as we introduce an entirely new Air Canada Rouge product with cutting-edge in-flight entertainment, Fast, Free Wi-Fi, and seats that recline for all customers.”
Air Canada has also opened a new Rouge crew base in Vancouver, coinciding with the entry into service of the first Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.
Once the shake-up is complete, Rouge will solely operate MAX jets configured with 12 business class seats, 18 preferred seats and 147 economy seats. The airline’s aging A319s are to be retired.
Our newest bird just spread its wings! Our first @Airbus #A321XLR lifted off for its inaugural flight in Hamburg and we want you to soar along. Sleek, efficient and built for long‑range productivity, this jet is ready to go far. ✈️ #FirstFlight pic.twitter.com/gsAQ7hSUIk
— Air Canada (@AirCanada) February 27, 2026
During the coming months, Air Canada is set to welcome the first of its 30 Airbus A321XLRs, while continuing to take deliveries of the Canadian-built Airbus A220, with 23 aircraft remaining on its firm order of 65.
Delivery of 14 Air Canada Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners is also expected to commence later this year, and in February 2026, the carrier announced an order for eight Airbus A350-1000s.
Upgrades to the customer experience also extend to regional travel, with Air Canada Express aircraft operated by Jazz to be fitted with new cabins and free Wi-Fi.
