Air Canada is set to open an Airbus A220 base in Vancouver, British Columbia, allowing the carrier to deploy the aircraft from its Western hub more efficiently. The airline’s network and revenue chief, Mark Galardo, detailed Air Canada’s plans to further expand the aircraft’s network during an Investor Day event.
The airline will open the new Vancouver base by 2026, according to the Tuesday presentation. The A220, Galardo said, unlocks several route opportunities that would otherwise be served by regional jets.
‘One of the Best’ Narrowbody Jets
In his prepared remarks, Galardo sang the A220’s praises, despite ongoing Pratt & Whitney engine issues affecting some aircraft.
“We’re of the view that the A220 is one of the best narrowbody products in terms of customer experience, and this airplane elevates the Air Canada brand,” he said.
Air Canada expects to grow its A220 fleet to 70 aircraft in the coming years. Currently, the airline has a total of 34 A220s, with several parked due to engine issues.
“The A220’s economic profile has already proven itself in Canada, enabling us to offer city pairs right-sized for this type of airplane,” Galardo continued. “For example, we were able to launch flights from Toronto to Monterey, Mexico, and from Montreal to Austin, Texas.”
He added that the A220s allow for more U.S. expansion opportunities. “We’re looking forward to having a Vancouver base by 2026 and to be able to offer a great A220 experience across our three hubs.”
According to Cirium Diio schedule data, Air Canada’s A220s operate a handful of flights from Vancouver. More routes are slated to begin next year.
