Air Canada Installs Starlink Wi-Fi on Dash 8-400 Aircrafts
In an exciting development for regional travel, Air Canada has announced a significant modernization of its Dash 8-400 fleet operated by Jazz Aviation for Air Canada Express. The $10 million cabin modernization program covers 25 aircraft, marking a new era of comfort and connectivity for passengers.
One of the key features of this upgrade is the integration of SpaceX's Starlink satellite network. Air France has already made headlines as Europe's first major airline to offer free, Starlink-powered Wi-Fi across its fleet, and now Air Canada is following suit. Chorus Aviation, Air Canada's parent company, will conduct the negotiations with SpaceX for the integration of the Starlink system on the De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400.
The addition of Starlink demonstrates a commitment to continued investment in products and providing cutting-edge solutions for customers, according to Ryan DeBrusk, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at De Havilland Canada. Passengers can now enjoy reliable, high-speed internet access for streaming, browsing, and other real-time online applications on Air Canada's refurbished Dash 8-400s.
The rollout of Air Canada's refurbished Dash 8-400s will continue through 2026, gradually phasing in new interiors and connectivity across the fleet. The upgrade includes not only the installation of Starlink Wi-Fi but also the introduction of new Expliseat ultra-lightweight seats, refreshed cabin interiors, and modern finishes designed to boost passenger comfort.
This modernization project aims to improve baggage payload and reduce emissions, making travel more sustainable. The project brings many of the design details and comforts of Air Canada's larger jets to the Canadian-made Dash 8-400, making even short flights feel special.
Regional hops out of Toronto are about to feel a lot more like long-haul travel for passengers in terms of staying connected from gate to gate. Starlink Wi-Fi will be available on select flights out of Toronto's Billy Bishop Airport to Montreal and Ottawa starting this October. Aeroplan loyalty members will enjoy free access to Starlink Wi-Fi, while other passengers are expected to have options to connect as the rollout expands.
Air Canada's move to install Starlink Wi-Fi on its De Havilland Dash 8-400 turboprops marks the first time any De Havilland Canada aircraft worldwide offers gate-to-gate internet access. This move positions Air Canada as a pioneer in modernizing regional travel and bringing many of the comforts of larger jets to shorter flights.
The company's Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer, Mark Nasr, stated that the upgrade reflects Air Canada's pride in serving customers with care and class. Furthermore, SpaceX is reportedly in advanced talks with other major carriers, such as British Airways, Saudi Arabia's flagship airline, and Emirates, to bring its high-speed solution to more carriers around the world.
By becoming the launch customer for Starlink on the Dash 8-400, Air Canada is helping De Havilland Canada market the system as either a factory option for new builds or a retrofit for existing aircraft through its OEM Refurbishment Program. This partnership not only enhances the passenger experience but also supports the ongoing development and adoption of Starlink technology in the aviation industry.
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