Air Canada has converted options for 15 of the A220-300 aircraft into firm orders.
This brings the carrier’s total order book to 60 of the Canadian-built aircraft – the development and manufacturing facilities are located in Mirabel, Quebec.
Air Canada placed its initial order for the A220 in 2016, when it was known as the Bombardier C Series. This included a firm order for 45 aircraft and 30 options.
The carrier’s first A220 entered service in January 2020 and the airline currently operates a fleet of 31 A220s, with two additional deliveries expected by the end of the year.
Twelve aircraft will be delivered in 2024 and 2025, with the additional 15 aircraft scheduled for delivery in 2026.
The A220-300 offers 137 seats in a two-class configuration (business and economy).
Michael Rousseau, president and chief executive of Air Canada, commented:
“This expanded order for the A220, built up the road from our Montreal headquarters, is an important development in the modernization of our fleet and a clear indication that we are emerging from the pandemic solidly positioned for the future.
“The A220 has become a mainstay of our narrowbody fleet, and its performance and passenger comfort are enabling us to compete effectively in the North American market.”
Benoît Schultz, CEO of Airbus Canada and head of country Canada for Airbus, added:
“This third re-order for the A220 in 2022 confirms the strong confidence that airlines worldwide have for this game-changing aircraft.
“With already over 30 aircraft in service in the country, this Canadian-designed and built aircraft has positively contributed to opening new routes as well as to making strides in reaching ambitious environmental goals for Air Canada – thanks to its unmatched efficiency.”
Air Canada says that the A220 aircraft plays an important role in the carrier’s commitment to reach a goal of net zero emissions from all global operations by 2050.
The aircraft yields a 25 per cent reduction in fuel consumption per seat, as well as a 25 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions compared to previous generation of aircraft. The A220 also delivers a 50 per cent reduction in noise footprint than previous generation aircraft.
