Air Canada has announced that the first of its updated Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft has officially entered service with its leisure brand, Air Canada Rouge. The move emphasizes the airline’s continuous effort to refresh Rouge’s cabins while improving the onboard experience for travellers flying to sun and holiday destinations.
Boeing 737 MAX 8. Photo: Air CanadaThe updated aircraft will primarily operate Rouge’s leisure routes across North America and the Caribbean, offering upgraded interiors with personal seatback entertainment screens, reclining seats, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi sponsored by Bell.
“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. 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.”
Boeing 737 MAX 8. Photo: Air CanadaTo support the expansion of its leisure network, Air Canada has also opened a new Rouge crew base in Vancouver, a decision aimed at increasing flights to sun destinations from Western Canada, including the return of winter routes from Calgary to Cancun and Puerto Vallarta.
Passengers flying with Rouge will continue to receive complimentary wine and beer on North American and Caribbean flights, including non-alcoholic options. The airline is also highlighting Canadian snack brands onboard, such as MadeGood Morning Bars on early flights, TWIGZ pretzels, and Leclerc Célébration cookies.
The reconfigured cabins include 12 Business Class seats, 18 Preferred seats with extra space, and 147 standard economy seats.
The Rouge upgrade is part of a broader fleet modernization across the airline. Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft currently used by Rouge will be retrofitted to match Air Canada’s newer cabin design. The airline is also preparing to introduce the longer-range Airbus A321XLR.
Regional flights are expected to see upgrades as well. Air Canada Express aircraft operated by Jazz will receive new cabins and next-generation free Wi-Fi.