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Air Canada has announced a comprehensive enhancement program for its De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft (Q-400) operated under the Air Canada Express brand. 25 aircraft will undergo significant upgrades through 2026, with new seating, redesigned cabin interiors, and the introduction of free Wi-Fi.
Free Wi-Fi from Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ)
Starting in October, Air Canada will introduce free, high-speed Wi-Fi sponsored by Bell on flights from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) to Montréal (YUL) and Ottawa (YOW) – Canada’s busiest business travel corridor. This will be the first time that Wi-Fi has ever been made available on the Q-400 aircraft type globally.
Installing satellite Wi-Fi system (Image Credit: Air Canada)
While Wi-Fi installation will initially focus on the Toronto City Airport routes, Air Canada continues to expand its fleet-wide connectivity, and completion across the network is expected by 2026.
Air Canada Q400 – New Seating and Cabin Redesign
The 25 Dash 8-400 aircraft will be outfitted with new ergonomic seats designed by Expliseat. These seats will feature updated branding and design language, enhanced comfort, and practical features, including integrated device holders for tablets and smartphones, as well as traditional tray tables. Each aircraft will continue to offer 78 seats with unchanged pitch. The seat installation program is targeted for completion by mid-2026.
New AC Q-400 seats (Image Credit: Air Canada)
Refined Cabin Interiors
Complementing the new seating, the cabin interiors of the Dash 8-400 fleet will be redesigned to reflect Air Canada’s modern mainline aesthetic. The refreshed interiors will incorporate tones and colours inspired by Canadian landscapes and regions, and are expected to elevate the onboard atmosphere. The redesign will bring consistency across the fleet, ensuring that even short-haul regional flights reflect the premium design standards Air Canada has introduced on its larger jets.
Takeaway
Regional flying remains a critical element of Air Canada’s overall strategy, mostly served through the Q-400 fleet. Modernization of the fleet through free Wi-Fi, new seats, and cabin redesign is welcome news for all Air Canada passengers. Operated under agreement with Jazz Aviation, Air Canada Express flights connect more than 70 airports in Canada and the U.S., providing essential links to Air Canada’s domestic, transborder, and international network.
Air Canada Network with Q-400 aircraft (via FlightConnections)
Featured Image Credit: Air Canada
