Air Canada to Deploy First A321XLR on This New Travel Destination

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MONTREAL- Canadian flag carrier, Air Canada (AC), has confirmed that Palma de Mallorca (PMI) will be the first new route to debut with its Airbus A321XLR aircraft. Starting June 2026, nonstop service will connect Montréal (YUL) with the Spanish island, marking Air Canada’s entry as the first Canadian airline to operate flights to Mallorca.

The A321XLR fleet will begin deliveries in the first quarter of 2026. Tickets for the Montréal–Mallorca route are already available through Air Canada’s website and travel agencies, offering passengers an early chance to secure seats on this new service.

Air Canada A321XLR to Palma de Mallorca

The selection of Palma de Mallorca highlights Air Canada’s strategy to use the Airbus A321XLR’s extended range for niche international markets that previously lacked direct connections.

Mallorca is one of Europe’s most visited islands, known for beaches, cultural heritage, and Mediterranean resorts. With the A321XLR, Air Canada can now link Montréal to destinations that were previously considered beyond the reach of narrow-body aircraft.

Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Air Canada, described the A321XLR as a “revolutionary” addition to the fleet. Its range capability, combined with wide-body amenities, makes it possible to serve new transatlantic destinations with greater efficiency.

The Aircraft and Onboard Experience

The Airbus A321XLR will become the first narrow-body aircraft in Air Canada’s fleet to feature lie-flat seats in Signature Class. The configuration will seat 182 passengers, with 14 Signature Class seats and 168 in Economy Class.

Beyond seating, the A321XLR introduces a new design standard for Air Canada’s cabins, setting the stage for refreshed interiors across future deliveries. This means travelers on the Mallorca route will experience a premium, wide-body style service on a smaller aircraft.

Expansion Beyond Mallorca

Mallorca is only the beginning. Air Canada plans to transition existing transatlantic routes to the A321XLR as part of its broader fleet integration. These include:

Montréal (YUL) – Toulouse (TLS): A year-round connection between two French-speaking cities.
Montréal (YUL) – Edinburgh (EDI): Seasonal flights resuming in 2026, now with upgraded onboard product.

As additional A321XLRs are delivered, Air Canada will expand further from Toronto (YYZ), Ottawa (YOW), and Halifax (YHZ), using the aircraft to serve more mid-size international markets.

Flight Schedule: Montréal–Palma de Mallorca

AC 924: Departs Montréal (YUL) at 18:45, arrives Palma de Mallorca (PMI) at 08:25 (+1 day)
– Operates Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday (June 17 – October 23, 2026)
AC 925: Departs Palma de Mallorca (PMI) at 12:15, arrives Montréal (YUL) at 15:10
– Operates Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday (June 18 – October 24, 2026)

Fleet Delivery Timeline

Air Canada has ordered 30 Airbus A321XLR aircraft, with the first delivery scheduled for early 2026. Ten additional units are expected later that same year, leased through Air Lease Corporation.

This investment reflects Air Canada’s long-term goal of opening new transatlantic markets and upgrading customer experience with more versatile aircraft.

Palma de Mallorca Travel Guide

Palma de Mallorca (PMI) is the vibrant capital of the Balearic Islands, home to historic landmarks, bustling markets, and Mediterranean charm. Travelers arriving at Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) find themselves within minutes of the island’s cultural and culinary heart.

Iberia (IB), Ryanair (FR), and Vueling (VY) are among the many airlines connecting Palma (PMI) with major European hubs. Once in the city, visitors discover a destination that blends Gothic architecture, lively tapas culture, and easy access to Mallorca’s coastline.

Exploring the City Beyond the Beaches

Palma is more than just a gateway to Mallorca’s beaches. Its historic Old Town invites visitors to wander cobbled streets lined with artisan shops and hidden courtyards.

The iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, also known as La Seu, dominates the skyline with its Gothic architecture and Gaudí-inspired interiors. Around it, lively squares and waterfront promenades bring the city to life, especially in the evenings.

The city’s character is shaped by layers of history: Moorish baths, medieval churches, and 20th-century modernist buildings stand side by side.

Beyond history, Palma has a thriving food and coffee culture, modern galleries, and boutique hotels, making it a destination worth several days rather than a quick stop.

When to Visit Palma de Mallorca

Palma welcomes visitors year-round, but spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the best weather with fewer crowds. Summers bring cruise ships and high heat, making the city busier, while winter offers a quieter experience with mild Mediterranean temperatures.

How Many Days to Stay

Two nights are enough to see Palma’s highlights, but three nights allow for a slower pace. This gives time to enjoy the cathedral, local markets, and a few memorable meals without feeling rushed.

Getting Around the City

Palma is a walkable city, so a car isn’t needed. Parking is limited in the center, but rental cars are useful for day trips to villages like Valldemossa, Deià, and Fornalutx. Within Palma, taxis and buses provide easy transfers, including the 20-minute trip between the airport (PMI) and the city center.

Where to Stay in Palma

Hotel Antigua Palma – Boutique hotel with rooftop views.
Sant Francesc Singular – Luxury hotel in a historic mansion.

Both options place guests in the heart of the city, within walking distance of Palma’s main sights.

Where to Eat in Palma

Mercat de l’Olivar – Traditional market with fresh seafood tapas.
Can Joan de S’Aigo – Historic café, famous for ensaimadas and hot chocolate.
Ombu Tapas – Modern twist on tapas, popular with locals and visitors.
Bar Espanya – Casual pintxos and drinks.
La Rosa Vermutería – Known for vermouth and classic Spanish dishes.
Mistral Coffee House – Specialty coffee favorite.
El Aquanauta – Mexican street food.
La Molienda Bisbe – Local breakfast spot.
Emilio Innobar – Internationally inspired cuisine.

Things to Do in Palma

Visit Palma Cathedral (La Seu): Iconic Gothic cathedral with Gaudí’s design touches.
Stroll the Old Town: Narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and local shops.
Explore artisan stores: Arquinesia Perfumes, Gordiola glass, and Mimbrería Vidal.
Relax at Parc de la Mar: Green space with waterfront views.
See Fundació Miró Mallorca: Joan Miró’s workshop and art collection.
Walk Via Verí: Known for design shops and charming streets.
Discover Bellver Castle: Circular Gothic fortress with panoramic views.
Es Baluard Museum: Modern and contemporary art.
Enjoy tapas trails: Tuesday nights in the city.
Day trips: Drive to mountain villages or beaches east of the city.

Best Day Trips from Palma

Deià, Valldemossa, and Fornalutx: Mountain villages with scenic views and cultural heritage.
Santanyí and Cala Figuera: Eastern coastal towns with beautiful beaches.
Beach clubs like PuroBeach or Anima: Ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.

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