Air Canada is set to expand its fleet with the addition of five more A220-300 aircraft following a recent firm order with Airbus. This marks another significant step for the airline as it builds on its commitment to modernize its fleet and pursue sustainability goals.
The latest order increases Air Canada’s total confirmed order for the A220-300 to 65, following earlier orders for 45 aircraft made back in 2016 and another 15 added in 2022. Although Airbus has not disclosed the financial details of this latest acquisition, industry estimates suggest the order could be valued at well over $450 million.
“This is Air Canada’s third order for the A220 in a few years,” stated Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales, Commercial Aircraft for Airbus. “We are committed to working closely with the flag carrier as we support its fleet-renewal program.” De Saint-Exupéry also noted, “The A220 is the most efficient aircraft in its size category, offering superior comfort with a spacious cabin and the range to fly numerous destinations on the carrier’s network.”
The A220 series, originally developed as the Bombardier C-Series, is known for its superior fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. Available in two variants—the A220-100, which accommodates 100-120 passengers, and the A220-300, which seats 120-150 passengers—the aircraft features Pratt & Whitney’s advanced geared turbofan engines, yielding around 25% reduction in fuel burn and carbon emissions per seat compared to older aircraft.
Air Canada, the first North American airline to operate the A220-300 back in January 2020, currently utilizes the aircraft to connect over 70 destinations across its network. The aircraft can cover routes of up to 3,600 nautical miles (6,700 kilometers), making it suitable for both domestic and international flights.
Manufactured at Airbus facilities located in Mirabel, Quebec, and Mobile, Alabama, the A220 plays a pivotal role within Canada’s aerospace sector, contributing significantly to local economies. With this fleet expansion, Air Canada continues to strengthen its position as the country’s national airline, focusing on sustainable growth.
One of the important features of the A220 is its capability to utilize Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The aircraft is already certified to use up to 50% SAF, with Airbus committing to achieve full compatibility with 100% SAF by the year 2030. This move aligns with the airline industry’s growing focus on sustainability and reducing environmental impact.
Following the recent order, Air Canada will operate 134 Airbus aircraft, which span various models including the A220-300, A320 family, and A330 family. The airline has also placed additional orders for 26 A321XLRs, reinforcing its dedication to modernizing its fleet.
Globally, the A220 has garnered significant interest with nearly 900 orders secured from 32 customers as of November 2024, and around 380 aircraft delivered to 23 operators. This marks the aircraft’s emergence as a leader within the small single-aisle segment, operating seamlessly on over 1,500 routes to more than 460 destinations worldwide.
Air Canada's announcement cements its strategic approach to fleet expansion, enhancing both operational efficiency and customer experience. With investments being funneled toward modern, sustainable aircraft, the airline is not only positioning itself as a national leader but also contributing to the future of aviation.
