Published on February 7, 2026

In an exciting development for Air Canada, the airline has unveiled two new direct flight services for its state-of-the-art Airbus A321XLR aircraft, set to launch in 2026. The new routes will connect Montreal with two major international destinations: Los Angeles, USA, and Lyon, France. These routes mark a significant milestone in Air Canada’s ongoing expansion of its North American and European network, particularly with the addition of a U.S. destination, which is the first for the airline’s A321XLR fleet.
Montreal to Los Angeles: Direct Service for Business and Leisure Travelers
On October 1, 2026, Air Canada will begin operating daily flights between Montreal and Los Angeles, replacing its smaller A220-300 aircraft with the more spacious and comfortable Airbus A321XLR. This new route will be an upgrade for travelers seeking a more efficient and enjoyable travel experience. The flight duration will be approximately five hours, providing a direct and smooth connection between Montreal and the heart of the entertainment industry.
The outbound flight will depart Montreal at 8:20 a.m. and arrive in Los Angeles at 11:20 a.m., offering ample time for business meetings or sightseeing in the City of Angels. The return flight from Los Angeles to Montreal will leave at 4:55 p.m., arriving at 7:55 p.m., allowing passengers to maximize their day in Los Angeles before heading back.
Connecting Montreal to Lyon: A New Gateway to Cultural Heritage
Expanding its European presence, Air Canada will also introduce a direct service between Montreal and Lyon, starting September 8, 2026. This route, operating five times a week, will offer travelers a more convenient way to reach one of France’s most charming and culturally significant cities. The Airbus A321XLR will operate this route, providing a more tailored service compared to the larger aircraft previously used, such as the Boeing 787-8 and 787-9.

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Flights from Montreal will depart at 10:15 p.m., arriving in Lyon at 11:40 a.m. the following day, allowing passengers to rest comfortably during the journey. The return flight from Lyon will leave at 1:55 p.m., landing in Montreal at 4:40 p.m. local time. This new service opens up more opportunities for tourists and business travelers to explore Lyon’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, renowned museums, and exquisite gastronomy.
Why the Airbus A321XLR Is Perfect for These Routes
Air Canada’s decision to deploy the Airbus A321XLR for these new routes reflects a strategic shift towards more fuel-efficient and versatile aircraft. The A321XLR is specifically designed for longer journeys, with an extended range of up to 4,700 nautical miles, making it ideal for connecting cities like Montreal and Lyon. The aircraft’s fuel efficiency also allows Air Canada to reduce emissions while offering a comfortable and quieter cabin experience for passengers.

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The A321XLR is particularly well-suited for medium-haul international flights, where a larger widebody aircraft is less efficient. By utilizing the A321XLR, Air Canada can optimize its fleet, offering more direct routes while maintaining high levels of passenger comfort and convenience.
Impact on North American and European Tourism
These new routes represent a growing opportunity for Air Canada to tap into the rising demand for direct international travel, particularly in the tourism and business sectors. Los Angeles is a key hub for both the tech and entertainment industries, while Lyon, with its rich history and cultural landmarks, is a popular destination for leisure travelers.
Business travelers from Montreal will benefit from the direct service to Los Angeles, facilitating easier access to one of the world’s most important business centers. At the same time, Lyon’s appeal as a cultural and gastronomic hotspot is set to attract increasing numbers of North American visitors, boosting tourism between the two continents.
A Strategic Move for Air Canada’s Fleet and Network
As the A321XLR continues to play a central role in Air Canada’s fleet expansion, the airline aims to further expand its network by tapping into more medium-haul routes across both Europe and North America. The addition of these routes is part of Air Canada’s long-term strategy to offer more direct services between key international destinations while reducing the environmental impact of air travel.
The A321XLR’s ability to fly longer distances without compromising fuel efficiency allows Air Canada to serve destinations that were previously not as economically viable with larger aircraft. This makes it possible for the airline to cater to both business and leisure passengers, all while aligning with global sustainability trends.
Conclusion: Strengthening International Connections
The introduction of the Montreal to Los Angeles and Montreal to Lyon routes demonstrates Air Canada’s commitment to expanding its network and offering travelers more direct, convenient, and comfortable flight options. Whether traveling for business, leisure, or cultural exploration, these new routes will enhance connectivity between key cities in North America and Europe. With the A321XLR, Air Canada is setting a new standard for fuel-efficient travel on medium-haul international flights, providing passengers with a more sustainable way to explore the world.

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Tags: A321XLR, Air Canada, direct flights, Montreal to Los Angeles, Montreal to Lyon

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