Canada's flag carrier has introduced a new option that allows more space for carry-on baggage on some flights — but that won't matter for some travellers.
Air Canada announced on Tuesday, April 8, that it will provide more overhead storage space in its Airbus Airspace cabin on the A220 family of aircraft.
Customers will be able to store their carry-on luggage in newly designed XL bins, increasing current overhead capacity by over 15 per cent and including new ceiling design and lighting. The new Airspace cabin has also been timed to coincide with new Air Canada upgrades, "including an updated cabin interior and seat back entertainment," according to a news release.
The new bins are expected to be implemented in the first aircraft in early 2026.
Air Canada's managing director of onboard product John Moody says the A220 has already become a customer favourite, making it the top choice to implement the new storage bins.
"The introduction of larger overhead bins on future A220s means more space for your belongings, quicker boarding, and an even better experience on board," he explains.
Larger bins are a part of Air Canada's fleet renewal programme
As of April 1, 2025, Air Canada and other Star Alliance members started renewing their fleets with new aircraft and upgrading old ones. The new bins are part of the airline's fleet renewal programme.
"Through the introduction of the A220 Airspace cabin, we now enable a fully consistent passenger experience on all our platforms providing widebody comfort on single aisle aircraft," said Ingo Wuggetzer, vice-president of cabin marketing at Airbus.
The A220 Airspace cabin is touted for its passenger experience, offering optimal comfort through wide seats and aisles, "as well as the largest cabin and windows in its class," according to the airline.
Air Canada currently operates a fleet of 34 A220-300, manufactured in Quebec. It has ordered 31 more of these aircraft.
Passengers must check Air Canada's baggage allowance for their fare class
Travellers should consider what they plan to bring before they purchase a ticket. Depending on the route, some flights do not include a free carry-on or a piece of checked luggage, particularly if it is on a domestic route.
On Dec. 4, Canada's flag carrier announced new rules for its "economy basic" fare class for carry-on baggage and seat selection. Travellers may no longer bring a carry-on bag in its lowest fare class or book a seat for free 24 hours before travel.
Travellers who purchase Air Canada Economy Basic tickets on or after Jan. 3, 2025, can no longer bring a carry-on bag. They may only bring a personal item when travelling within Canada, to and from the U.S. (including Hawaii and Puerto Rico), and to and from Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.
Travellers who purchase Economy Basic tickets connecting to international destinations may continue to bring one standard carry-on bag and a personal item on board.
Air Canada's restriction for standard carry-on bags is 55 cm high by 23 cm deep by 40 cm wide. In comparison, a personal item adheres to the following dimensions: 33 cm high by 16 cm deep by 43 cm wide.
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