SMBC Aviation Capital Delivers First Airbus A321XLR to Air Canada, Marking a New Era in Long‑Range Single‑Aisle Operations

• Delivery is the first of fifteen A321XLR aircraft to be leased by SMBC Aviation Capital to Air Canada
• Aircraft brings widebody‑style comfort and operational flexibility to long‑range narrowbody flying

DUBLIN, April 24, 2026: SMBC Aviation Capital today announced the delivery of the first Airbus A321XLR aircraft to Air Canada, marking the start of a fifteen‑aircraft A321XLR lease agreement between the two companies. 

The aircraft was delivered from Airbus’ Hamburg facility and represents a significant milestone for both organisations and the introduction of the A321XLR into service for Air Canada.

The aircraft will support Air Canada’s continued fleet modernisation and network growth, enabling greater flexibility to serve long‑haul and transcontinental routes with lower emissions and improved economics.

The Airbus A321XLR is the latest evolution of Airbus’ single‑aisle family, designed to deliver extended range, outstanding fuel efficiency and enhanced passenger comfort. 

The A321XLR delivered to Air Canada is configured to the airline’s new cabin design standard, bringing a widebody‑style passenger experience to a narrowbody platform. In a first for Air Canada, the aircraft features Signature Class lie‑flat seating on a single‑aisle aircraft, alongside upgraded inflight entertainment, enhanced connectivity and personal device power at every seat.

Barry Flannery, Chief Commercial Officer at SMBC Aviation Capital, said:

“SMBC Aviation Capital is delighted to deliver the first of fifteen A321XLR aircraft to Air Canada. This delivery underscores our commitment to supporting our airline customers with next‑generation aircraft that enable sustainable growth and an enhanced customer experience. Air Canada has a clear and ambitious fleet and network strategy, and we are proud to partner with them as they introduce the A321XLR into their operations.”

“Air Canada is building one of the most modern and capable fleets in the industry. The Airbus A321XLR introduces a dynamic new component to Air Canada's growth strategy, greatly expanding our flexibility to launch new international routes and improve our offering on existing markets,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, and President of Cargo at Air Canada. “Supporting our fleet modernization, continued network growth, and an elevated onboard experience, the arrival of our first Airbus A321XLR, on lease from SMBC Aviation Capital, marks a transformative moment for Air Canada.”

About SMBC Aviation Capital

SMBC Aviation Capital is the leading global aviation finance platform, servicing a fleet of 1700 aircraft with 170 airlines globally. 

Benefiting from the strong support of its shareholders Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group and Sumitomo Corporation. SMBC Aviation Capital has a high-quality global airline customer base with a portfolio comprising 87% narrow-body aircraft and 73% new technology aircraft (by net book value). SMBC Aviation Capital has a strong capital position and holds an A- and BBB+ rating with S&P and Fitch respectively, reflecting the long-term strength of its business. 

For more information, please visit: https://www.smbc.aero/

For more information, please contact:

Conor Irwin, SVP Communications (for media) +353 87 381 6106