Air Canada confirms order for eight Airbus A350-1000s

February 12, 2026 in Companies, Transport, Travel & Tourism by Editor

 

Air Canada has disclosed a firm order for eight Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, reinforcing its long-haul fleet strategy and expanding its widebody commitment to the European manufacturer.

The order, which had previously been listed as undisclosed in Airbus’ November 2025 backlog, was formally attributed to the Canadian carrier on February 12 in Toulouse.

The A350-1000 is the largest variant of the A350 family and is designed for long-range operations of up to 9,000 nautical miles. For Air Canada, the aircraft is expected to support network expansion, particularly on ultra-long-haul routes linking Canada with destinations in the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia and Australia.

Air Canada executives described the aircraft as a natural progression in the airline’s fleet renewal strategy, citing improved efficiency and extended range as central to future long-haul growth. Airbus said the selection underscores continued demand for next-generation widebody aircraft as airlines modernise fleets and target lower operating costs.

The A350-1000 features Airbus’ Airspace cabin design and is powered by Rolls-Royce engines. The aircraft incorporates advanced aerodynamics and lightweight materials, contributing to a claimed 25 percent reduction in fuel burn and emissions compared with previous-generation competitor aircraft.

Airbus said the A350 is currently certified to operate with up to 50 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with a target for full SAF capability by 2030.

As of the end of January 2026, the A350 family had secured more than 1,500 orders from 67 customers worldwide.

The addition of the A350-1000 strengthens Air Canada’s position in the long-haul segment as global carriers continue to recalibrate fleet plans around efficiency, range and environmental performance.