Air Canada to roll out free WiFi

Air Canada is joining the worldwide push towards free inflight WiFi, with unlimited access available to all members of Air Canada’s free-to-join Aeroplan loyalty program beginning in May 2025 at speeds suitable for live streaming video.

First up will be routes across Canada and the USA, and “over 85% of aircraft will be connected from day one,” says Mark Nasr, Air Canada’s Executive Vice President Marketing and Digital – with the rollout covering Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, and most Air Canada Express aircraft.

The timetable sees long-range international flights following in 2026.

The Star Alliance member currently charges CAD$6.50 per hour or CAD$21 for a flight pass, along with a CAD$70 monthly pass covering Air Canada flights between airports in Canada, the USA and Mexico, although free unlimited app-based messaging is already in place.

“Reliable access to streaming-quality WiFi is becoming essential for both business and leisure travellers,” explains Nasr, who in mid-2023 told Executive Traveller that Air Canada doesn’t presently charge for WiFi to make money, but to keep bandwidth available for those who want WiFi and stopping the system from getting congested.

And as WiFi bandwidth and capabilities grow, Nasr said travellers would be able to sign into their own accounts on streaming content services including Netflix, Disney Plus, Apple TV+, Spotify, Hayu, SportsNet and DAZN.

The apps would be preloaded onto Air Canada’s seatback screens, enabling a “watch your own” offering alongside regular content.