Air Canada has today announced that they will introduce fast, free Wi-Fi sponsored by Bell to North American and sun flights starting May 2025, with long-haul international routes to follow in 2026.
On Thursday (December 12, 2024), Air Canada announced that they will begin roiling out fast, free, streaming-quality Wi-Fi sponsored by Bell starting with North American and sun flights in May 2026, followed by long-haul international flights in 2026. Plans include flights to and from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, marking the first time the carrier’s Q400 fleet will feature Wi-Fi. Additionally, Aeroplan Members will benefit from free gate-to-gate access to reliable, streaming-quality Wi-Fi.
In Thursday’s announcement, Air Canada’s EVP – Marketing and Digital, and President of Aeroplan, Mark Nasr, said,
“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. 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. 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.”
Also commenting on the expanded connectivity partnership, Bell’s Group President – Consumer and Small Business, Blaik Kirby, added,
“This next chapter in our partnership with Air Canada reflects our purpose to advance how Canadians connect with each other and the world. We are transforming the in-flight experience for Aeroplan Members, enabling them to be productive, stream entertainment and stay connected throughout their journey.”
This initiative builds on the existing free Wi-Fi texting service sponsored by Bell, which has been available since May 2023 for Aeroplan members. Customers who aren’t currently Aeroplan members can sign up free of charge, and non-members will be able to purchase Wi-Fi for their flight at a reduced flat fee.
Air Canada is Canada’s largest domestic and international airline. The Canadian flag carrier is a founding member of the Star Alliance and holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada provides scheduled passenger service to 180 airports in Canada, the United States, and internationally on six continents. Through the carrier’s Aeroplan loyalty program, customers can earn and redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of 45 airlines. Air Canada Cargo offers air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents with a dedicated fleet of 767-300 Freighters and passenger aircraft belly hold capacity. Additionally, the airline has committed to a net zero emissions goal from all global operations by 2050.
Source: Air Canada/CNW