Air Canada’s cheerful era begins with the departure of the first commercial flight Airbus A321XLR | News
Air Canada yesterday marked the start of scheduled service with its first Airbus A321XLR. The 182 passengers aboard AC413 from Montreal to Toronto experienced the beginning of a whole new chapter in how – and where – Air Canada customers can fly.
“Air Canada is building one of the most capable fleets in the industry. The entry into service of the first Airbus A321XLR marks a transformative moment for Air Canada and the start of an exciting new era for our customers, industry partners and colleagues,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, and President of Cargo at Air Canada. “Today we celebrate an aircraft that will open new destinations, enhance service in existing markets and enhance the inflight experience. For our premium customers, the A321XLR will provide the only lie-flat seats on a single-aisle aircraft for a Canadian airline as it crosses the Atlantic Ocean and connects destinations across North America.”
“ADM Aéroports de Montréal is pleased to celebrate the official launch of the A321XLR departing YUL Montréal-Trudeau today. This next-generation aircraft is a core part of Air Canada and YUL’s development and expansion,” said Yves Beauchamp, President and CEO of ADM. “This modern and versatile aircraft will open new markets and strengthen Montreal’s international connectivity, in addition to bringing greater flexibility to existing routes.”
“We are excited to celebrate this historic milestone together with our long-standing partner Air Canada. As the first airline in Canada to operate the A321XLR, Air Canada is demonstrating true leadership in fleet modernization,” said Colin, Bole, Senior Vice President Customers, North America, Airbus. “This aircraft is the perfect tool to support the growth of their network, seamlessly bridging the gap between short- and long-haul flights, while delivering a 30% reduction in fuel consumption per seat and the ability to use up to 50% pure sustainable aviation fuel. We are proud that our next generation technology supports Air Canada’s ambitions and in a more sustainable way in both new and existing non-stop transatlantic markets such as Montreal to Toulouse operates.”
