Airbus has announced that Air Canada will be the launch customer for the new Airspace cabin on its A220 aircraft, with deliveries expected to begin in early 2026.
The updated cabin design introduces a range of new features, most notably the Airspace XL overhead bins, which offer a 20% increase in volume, are 10% lighter, and are intended to speed up turnaround times by simplifying the boarding and baggage process. The new bins will accommodate up to 15% more carry-on luggage, equivalent to 19 additional bags on the A220-300, according to Airbus.
In addition to the expanded bins, the Airspace cabin includes enhanced LED lighting features, with an optional third light strip below the bins, as well as a redesigned Passenger Service Unit (PSU) developed in line with the Airspace design standards.
"The A220 has already become a favourite among our customers, and we’re thrilled to be the launch customer for the next cabin evolution of this Canadian-designed and assembled aircraft," said John Moody, Managing Director of Onboard Product at Air Canada. "The introduction of larger overhead bins on future A220s means more space for your belongings, quicker boarding, and an even better experience on board."
Ingo Wuggetzer, Vice President of Cabin Marketing at Airbus, added: "We are extremely happy to launch the A220 Airspace cabin with Air Canada and very proud the Canadian flag carrier is introducing our latest innovation to support its fleet renewal programme."
Airbus states that the Airspace cabin for the A220 aims to offer a more consistent experience across its fleet, bringing widebody-style comfort to single-aisle aircraft. According to the manufacturer, the new design will reduce structural cabin weight by approximately 300 pounds, improve operational efficiency, and minimize maintenance requirements due to simplified mechanisms.
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Retrofit options will be available for current A220 operators in the coming years, while line-fit installations are scheduled to begin in late 2025.
With the most recent order included, Air Canada now has 65 firm orders for the A220-300. The airline expects the first aircraft featuring the Airspace XL bins to enter service by early 2026, with the new cabin design becoming standard later that year.
The Airspace cabin for the A220 has also been named a finalist for the 2025 Crystal Cabin Award in the Passenger Comfort category. Winners will be announced on April 8, 2025, during the Crystal Cabin Award Gala in Hamburg.
AUTOR
Contando la aviación desde marzo del año 2000. Fundador y Managing Editor de Aviacionline.
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