Air Canada to add Airbus A350-1000 to expand its long‑haul international fleet

Air Canada ordered eight Airbus A350-1000s, with rights to buy eight more, and says deliveries will begin in the second half of 2030; the airline states the A350‑1000 is about 25% more fuel efficient than older aircraft.

Air Canada has ordered eight Airbus A350-1000 widebody aircraft and holds rights to buy an additional eight. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2030. The airline described the A350‑1000 as offering extended range, enhanced payload, and about 25% better fuel efficiency than older aircraft. Air Canada also said the planes will feature a new interior layout to be announced this year. Key details: - Order size: eight Airbus A350‑1000s, with purchase rights for eight more. - Delivery timing: scheduled to start in the second half of 2030. - Performance: the A350‑1000 is reported as about 25% more fuel efficient versus older aircraft and has roughly a 9,000 nautical mile range; it is powered by the Rolls‑Royce XWB97 engine. - Cabin and comfort: Air Canada said the A350‑1000 offers a very quiet cabin, pressurized to 6,000 feet, and will be fitted with a new interior layout to be announced. - Financial and fleet context: the airline did not disclose the purchase price; a 2018 list price for the type was reported as US$366.5 million, though discounts are commonly negotiated. The order comes as Air Canada prepares other fleet additions, including Boeing 787‑10s and A220s. Summary: Air Canada says the A350‑1000 order is intended to update its long‑haul widebody fleet and support an expanded international network. Deliveries begin in the second half of 2030 and interior details will be announced this year.