Air Canada plans to roll out fast, free streaming-quality Wi-Fi on many of its flights next spring. The service will be available to Aeroplan Members on Wi-Fi equipped aircraft for flights within North American and Sun markets beginning in May, 2025.
The airline also plans to expand free Wi-Fi service to long-haul international routes in 2026.
The move is widely seen as levelling the playing field with Porter which offers “uninterrupted [wi-fi] experience for Porter members” on its Embraer aircraft.
"Reliable access to streaming-quality Wi-Fi is becoming essential for both business and leisure travellers. That's why we're upgrading our fleet with the latest technologies," said Mark Nasr, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Digital at Air Canada, and President of Aeroplan. "We're excited to offer fast, free Wi-Fi to all Aeroplan Members, with a customer-focused rollout plan that includes installation of service on the Air Canada Express Q400s, including those that fly from Toronto's Billy Bishop Airport.”
In addressing the competitive landscape, Nasr said:
“Although other Canadian airlines have announced free Wi-Fi services, not all have accelerated installation across their fleets or committed to offering the service comprehensively. Air Canada plans to offer fast, free Wi-Fi across its entire fleet and will begin rolling out this service in early spring.”
“What's more, over 85% of aircraft will be connected from day one, with the remaining installations being a priority throughout 2025."
“Fast, free Wi-Fi will be available on Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge and most Air Canada Express aircraft,” officials said. “This initiative builds on the existing free Wi-Fi texting service sponsored by Bell, available since May 2023 for Aeroplan members.”
Customers who aren't already an Aeroplan Member can sign up free of charge at aircanada.com/aeroplan. Customer without an Aeroplan membership will be able to purchase Wi-Fi for their flight at a reduced flat fee. The amount wasn’t disclosed by Air Canada.
“Customers travelling on select regional routes on Wi-Fi equipped aircraft throughout Canada, including between Toronto Billy Bishop Airport and Montreal or Ottawa, will be able to stay productive, stream live TV, and enjoy seamless connectivity on their personal device throughout their flight,” Air Canada said. “Plans to complete certification and installation of Wi-Fi connectivity on Q400 aircraft is targeted to begin in 2025 with planned completion of a first phase by year-end. This is set to be the first fast, free Wi-Fi offering on Q400 aircraft.”
Earlier this year, Air Canada announced free wine, beer and snacks on domestic and transborder flights, matching Porter’s on board service.
