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Air Canada has embarked on the next phase of its transformation with the entry into scheduled service of its new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.
Flight AC137 from Toronto to Calgary on the morning of Dec. 11, 2017, was the first to be operated using the 169-seat, fuel-efficient aircraft, featuring Air Canada’s next generation in-flight entertainment system, spacious overhead storage bin capacity and Boeing’s Sky Interior. Throughout the day it will fly passengers from Calgary to Montreal, followed by service from Montreal to Vancouver.
“Introducing a new aircraft type to the fleet is always exciting for an airline, but we know customers will be even more thrilled by the Boeing 737 MAX, which is set to become the mainstay of our North American, narrow-body fleet. With this new aircraft we are introducing the next generation of our onboard entertainment system and customers will find ample storage space for carry-on baggage in its generous overhead bins,” said Benjamin Smith, president, Passenger Airlines at Air Canada.
Its first scheduled flights in North America include service to Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver and Montreal. The aircraft is also scheduled to operate internationally to Keflavik, Dublin and Shannon starting in summer 2018.
Air Canada has configured the 737 MAX in two cabins of service, North American business and economy. Features of the new aircraft include:
- Premium comfort and ambiance with improved seats and innovative LED mood lighting along the ceiling;
- An upgraded in-flight entertainment system with a sleek, new 15 language user interface. Coming soon, passengers will be able to stream video and audio to their own devices;
- Faster Wi-Fi due to antennas with the highest bandwidth available in the industry, available starting in early 2018;
- Upgraded overhead storage space compartments offer additional space for every single passenger to bring a carry-on bag;
- The latest quiet engine technology for up to 40 per cent less noise, meaning more peace and quiet for customers when flying;
- The 737 MAX uses 20 per cent less fuel per seat than the original Next-Generation 737.
Really like the Sleek colour scheme! Those business class seats look inviting, I’ll add that economy isn’t shabby either but I’ll test that myself after desperately shoving my small dogs soft carrier under the seat when I last flew Vancouver to Toronto yikes.