Air Canada has unveiled plans for a full cabin redesign and new seats onboard 25 De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft operated for Air Canada Express by Jazz.
On September 19, 2025, Air Canada said the announcement was the “beginning of a major upgrade program for its regional fleet”, designed to give passengers a “heightened level of comfort and convenience”.
The 25 Dash 8-400s will be equipped with next generation ergonomic seats from Expliseat, featuring new branding and design language on the seat’s dress cover.
All seats will include a seatback multi-use device holder for tablets and phones, as well as a table tray.
The installation of 78 seats per plane, which will remain on the same pitch, is expected to be completed around mid-2026.
“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,” said Mark Nasr, Executive Vice President and COO at Air Canada.
He added: “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.”
The cabins on all 25 aircraft will also be upgraded to a new standard reflective of Air Canada’s mainline aircraft interiors.
“The design incorporates colours, textures and tones of those found in nature in Canada, reinforcing Air Canada’s pride in being the nation’s flag carrier,” said a spokesperson for Air Canada.
In a first for any De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft in the world, Air Canada will provide free Wi-Fi onboard.
Although this will initially only be available to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) travelers from October 2025, Air Canada is tracking to complete this fleet-wide transformation in 2026.
The carrier has already fitted 97% of its mainline Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge aircraft with next-generation connectivity systems for Wi-Fi sponsored by Bell.
“We’re pleased to partner with Air Canada on these exciting upgrades to our Dash 8-400 fleet,” said Doug Clarke, President of Jazz. “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.”
