What are lie-flat seats? Air Canada gears up for big upgrade with new single-aisle aircrafts

Air Canada has announced it will introduce lie-flat seats on smaller aircraft for the first time in the country, marking a significant upgrade to its narrow-body fleet. With this move, the airline will become the only Canadian carrier to offer the feature on a single-aisle jet as part of a broader upgrade to its narrow-body fleet.

Single-aisle aircraft, also known as narrow-body aircraft, are smaller commercial planes with a single aisle running through the cabin. They are typically used for short to medium-haul flights and have a seating capacity of around 100 to 200 passengers.

The airline said it has acquired 30 Airbus A321XLR jets, each equipped with 14 lie-flat seats in its Signature Class cabin. The seats will recline 180 degrees into fully horizontal beds, according to a company press release. Air Canada added that the new aircraft will be capable of operating longer-range routes, with the planes expected to enter service over the coming years.


Air Canada said the aircraft will follow a new cabin design standard aimed at delivering a wide-body experience on a single-aisle plane, while also enabling longer-range routes. The jets are expected to enter service over the coming years.

“Equipped with a quieter, more comfortable cabin when compared to previous generation aircraft, this game-changing aircraft will shortly be deployed across the Atlantic from Montreal and Toronto, while also becoming a staple on key North American transcontinental markets,” Mark Galardo, executive vice-president and chief commercial officer and president of cargo at Air Canada, said, the release stated.

What are lie-flat seats?

Lie-flat seats are premium airline seats, most commonly found in business or first-class cabins, designed to enhance comfort on longer journeys. These seats can recline to a full 180-degree position, transforming into a flat surface.

When fully extended, they resemble a bed, allowing passengers to lie completely flat during the flight—an option that significantly improves rest and overall travel experience compared to traditional reclining seats.