Canadian flag carrier Air Canada is set to become the world’s launch customer for the Airbus Airspace cabin on the A220 family of aircraft, marking a major milestone in cabin innovation and passenger comfort. The airline confirmed that the first A220s featuring the upgraded Airspace interior will be delivered in early 2026, ushering in a new standard for narrow-body aircraft.
At the heart of the new Airspace cabin are XL overhead bins, designed to offer more than 15% increased capacity for passenger carry-on baggage. These newly engineered bins can store up to 19 additional bags on the A220-300, addressing one of the most persistent pain points for travelers: limited overhead space. The bins are also approximately 10% lighter, contributing to improved aircraft efficiency.
Beyond the bins, the Airspace cabin brings a refreshed ceiling design, enhanced lighting options, and redesigned passenger service units, elevating the overall cabin ambiance. For cabin crew, the fixed bin design reduces the need to lift pivoting compartments, enhancing ergonomics and safety. These enhancements also improve aircraft turnaround times and reduce maintenance complexity—a win for both operations and passengers.
John Moody, Managing Director of Onboard Products at Air Canada, shared his excitement:
“The A220 has already become a favorite among our customers, and we’re thrilled to be the launch customer for the next cabin evolution of this Canadian-designed and assembled aircraft. The introduction of larger overhead bins on future A220s means more space for your belongings, quicker boarding, and an even better experience on board.”
Air Canada’s decision to lead the rollout is fitting, given the aircraft’s roots in Canada. Originally launched as the Bombardier C Series, the A220 is designed and assembled in Mirabel, Quebec, reinforcing the airline’s national pride and investment in Canadian aerospace.
The Airspace cabin upgrade is expected to become standard on all A220 deliveries from late 2026, with retrofit options available for existing aircraft in future years. Airbus also noted that the A220 Airspace cabin has been selected as a finalist for the 2025 Crystal Cabin Awards, reflecting its industry-wide recognition for innovation in passenger comfort.
With 65 A220-300s on firm order, Air Canada is doubling down on a fleet that already offers the widest seats, largest windows, and quietest cabin in its category—and now, it will lead the way in redefining cabin standards for the next generation of flyers.
