Air Canada has announced that its first narrow-body transatlantic route from Montreal to Palma de Mallorca will launch in 2026, signalling the opening of non-stop flights on smaller planes than typical twin-aisle jets. Olivia Palamountain reports

Air Canada has announced Montreal to Palma de Mallorca as the first route for its new Airbus A321 extra-long range aircraft, marking a shift towards smaller planes operating long-haul routes traditionally served by twin-aisle planes such as the A380 and Boeing 777.

The A321XLR represents a game-changer for airline route planning, enabling direct flights to destinations that previously required larger, less fuel-efficient wide-body aircraft. The narrow-body jet can fly up to 4,700 nautical miles whilst carrying 182 passengers, opening possibilities for nonstop services between city pairs that lack sufficient demand for traditional long-haul aircraft.

Air Canada will launch the Palma de Mallorca service in June 2026, becoming the first Canadian airline to serve the Spanish island. The carrier will also deploy A321XLRs on existing Montreal to Toulouse and Montreal to Edinburgh routes, with aircraft deliveries beginning in the first quarter of 2026.

The aircraft features lie-flat seats in business class - a first for Air Canada's narrow-body fleet - bringing what the airline describes as a "wide-body experience on a narrow-body jet." The configuration includes 14 signature class seats and 168 economy seats, significantly fewer than the 300-500+ passengers typically carried on A380s or Boeing 777s serving transatlantic routes.

Mark Galardo, executive vice president & chief commercial officer and president, cargo at Air Canada, says: "The wait is nearly over as the imminent arrival of the game-changing Airbus A321XLR marks the next phase of international growth at Air Canada. This revolutionary narrow-body aircraft unlocks new, exciting global opportunities with its wide-body range and enhanced onboard product. By leveraging the unique capabilities of the A321XLR, Air Canada becomes the first Canadian airline to offer flights to this Spanish island, renowned for its stunning beaches, history and culture."

The A321XLR's economics allow airlines to serve routes that might be unprofitable with larger aircraft, potentially connecting smaller cities directly rather than forcing passengers through major hub airports. The aircraft's range capabilities enable transatlantic flights whilst maintaining the operational flexibility and lower costs associated with single-aisle aircraft.

Air Canada plans to add more routes from Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax as additional A321XLR aircraft join the fleet. The Montreal-Toulouse service connects two francophone cities year-round, whilst the Edinburgh route operates seasonally with what the airline describes as an "enhanced product offering" compared to previous aircraft.

The introduction also marks a new era in Air Canada's cabin design standards, with the A321XLR featuring updated interior aesthetics that will influence future aircraft deliveries. The narrow-body's ability to operate long-haul routes while offering premium amenities previously exclusive to wide-body aircraft reflects broader industry trends towards more efficient long-range aircraft.

Seats for all three routes are available for purchase through Air Canada's website and travel agents, with the Palma de Mallorca service representing the airline's first entry into the competitive Spanish holiday market.