Air Canada reveals comprehensive makeover plans for the cabin of 25 Dash 8-400 regional aircraft
Air Canada Upgrades Dash 8-400 Fleet with Innovative Seating, Refreshed Interiors, and Industry-Leading Wi-Fi
Air Canada has announced a significant upgrade program for its regional fleet, including the Dash 8-400 aircraft operated by Air Canada Express. The upgrades, which will be applied to 25 aircraft, include innovative seating, refreshed cabin interiors, and industry-leading onboard Wi-Fi.
The new seats will feature a brand-new design language on the seat dress cover, with many of the design details and comforts of Air Canada's largest jets being brought to the Dash 8-400 aircraft. Each seat 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.
Doug Clarke, President of Jazz, Air Canada's regional operator, stated that the upgrades to the Dash 8-400 fleet reflect a shared commitment to safety, operational excellence, and delivering exceptional customer service. Mark Nasr, Executive Vice President and COO at Air Canada, stated that the upgrade is designed to give passengers a "heightened level of comfort and convenience."
The cabins on all 25 aircraft will be upgraded to a new standard reflective of Air Canada's mainline aircraft interiors. The aircraft will be equipped with next-generation ergonomic seats from Expliseat. The design of the new Dash 8-400 aircraft incorporates colours, textures, and tones found in Canada, reinforcing Air Canada's pride in being the nation's flag carrier.
Air Canada Express, according to Mark Nasr, plays a crucial role in serving Canadian communities and linking businesses to the world. 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. The free Wi-Fi will initially be available to travelers at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) from October 2025.
Air Canada's Dash 8-400 aircraft will be the first of its kind in the world to offer free Wi-Fi onboard. The upgrades to the Dash 8-400 aircraft are part of Air Canada's major upgrade program announced on September 19, 2025. Air Canada is aiming to complete this fleet-wide transformation by 2026.
The spokesperson for Air Canada noted that the upgrades are part of the carrier's ongoing efforts to enhance the travel experience for its passengers and to provide them with the latest in-flight amenities. Doug Clarke, in his role as the President of Jazz, works in partnership with Air Canada to support the modernization and upgrade of the Dash 8-400 fleet.
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