Air Canada commits to Airbus A350-1000s, skipping delayed Boeing 777X
The airline confirmed a firm commitment for eight Airbus A350-1000s, with options for eight more, choosing European composite twins over Boeing’s delayed 777X. Fleet-tracking data show its 777-300ERs average 16.2 years and 777-200LRs over 18, pushing it toward costly engine teardowns and stress inspections, especially on long 15-hour transpacific routes, compressing margins. With 777X certification delays and setbacks, relying on Boeing for a seamless replacement is no longer viable.