• Thoughtfully designed essentials across all cabins help customers arrive rested and refreshed on international flights
• New bedding includes plush Signature Class duvets and six-foot blankets for customers in Premium Economy and Economy Class on international flights
• Signature Class amenity kits feature high-performance hydration products from Sahajan, a Canadian, award-winning, female-founded skincare company
• Reusable amenity kits developed with Canadian hospitality partner Hunter Amenities

MONTRÉAL, July 15, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Air Canada is introducing a new collection of premium bedding and thoughtfully designed amenities to elevate rest and comfort for customers on international flights.

Launching across all cabins beginning this month, the collection includes upgraded Signature Class duvets and pillows, generously sized blankets in Premium Economy and Economy Class, and new amenity kits developed in partnership with leading Canadian brands.

The collection represents the latest investment in Air Canada’s end-to-end Glowing Hearted experience, helping customers relax during their flight and arrive ready to make the most of their journey, whether they are travelling for business, reconnecting with family or beginning a long-awaited vacation.

“From the generously sized Premium Economy and Economy Class blanket that keeps you comfortable from shoulders to feet, to our new plush Signature Class duvets, every element introduced as part of this launch was thoughtfully chosen to help customers settle in, relax and rest throughout their journey,” said Jacqueline Harkness, Managing Director, Products & Services at Air Canada. “We’ve spent meaningful time with our customers, getting their perspective on what would make a flight more relaxing and restful. Then we went to work investing in high-quality products that deliver the very best that leading Canadian partners have to offer.”

Designed in Canada for Comfort Beyond the Flight

Air Canada partnered with leading Canadian hospitality partner Hunter Amenities to develop, manufacture and source the new amenity kits, combining comfort and functionality with thoughtful, reusable design.

“Working closely with Air Canada, we designed every component – from the drawstring bag to the eye mask and socks – to be used well beyond the flight, bringing added purpose to high-quality travel essentials for customers,” said John Hunter, Founder at Hunter Amenities.

Furthering its commitment to championing Canadian brands, Air Canada also partnered with Sahajan, an award-winning, female-founded skincare company.

New Signature Class amenity kits will feature Sahajan’s “Lip Karma,” a nourishing lip balm with castor and argan oils for lasting moisture, and “The Hand Remedy,” a rich, fast-absorbing cream that provides immediate relief and a non-greasy barrier for dry hands.

Both products are manufactured by Hunter Amenities at its facility in Burlington, Ontario.

“With cabin humidity often 10 to 20 per cent, air travel can quickly dehydrate the skin, especially the delicate skin on our hands and lips,” said Lisa Mattam, Founder and CEO of Sahajan. “We’re proud to partner with Air Canada to bring Sahajan’s blend of clinical science and time-tested Ayurvedic wisdom to their amenities program, sharing our natural wellness products with Air Canada’s customers on international routes”

New In-flight Comfort Essentials

Beginning in July, customers travelling on international flights can expect the following:

Economy and Premium Economy Bedding:

• A new cozy blanket made from high-quality polar fleece.
• Measuring six feet, the new generously sized blanket is designed to provide comfortable, full-body coverage for customers of all heights.

Premium Economy Amenity Kit:

• A soft neoprene eye mask with a contoured nose bridge to improve comfort and block light.
• High-quality 3M earplugs made from soft, hypoallergenic polyurethane foam with a noise reduction rating of 32 decibels.
• Knitted cabin socks.
• An antimicrobial bamboo toothbrush with Colgate toothpaste.

Air Canada Signature Class Bedding and Amenity Kit:

• An upgraded, 145 gsm duvet designed to offering increased softness, warmth, and superior comfort.
• A new pillow featuring a 16.5 oz AirFlow fill for optimized breathability and support.

Air Canada Signature Class Amenity Kit:

• A best-in-class eye mask that is soft, weightless and adjustable, precision-shaped to completely block out light and maximize comfort.
• Sahajan’s science-backed Lip Karma balm and The Hand Remedy cream for in-flight hydration.
• High-quality 3M earplugs made from soft, hypoallergenic polyurethane foam with a noise reduction rating 32 decibels.
• Quintessentially Canadian striped knitted cabin socks, made with 70 per cent cotton for warmth and comfort at high altitudes.
• An antimicrobial bamboo toothbrush with Colgate toothpaste and dental floss.
• The amenity kit is made in Canada and presented in a recycled cotton drawstring bag designed to be reused on future journeys.

Developed in close collaboration with Canadian partners, the bedding and amenity kit collection brings greater comfort, thoughtful functionality, and a distinctly Canadian touch to the international travel experience. For more information on Air Canada’s new in-flight amenities and details by cabin, visit aircanada.com/ArriveRefreshed.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Headquartered in Montréal, Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million members worldwide. Members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of more than 50 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers a selection of vacation and Flight & Hotel packages, tours, cruises, car rentals, excursions, and a variety of activities and experiences. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. For additional information, please see Air Canada’s TCFD disclosure. 

• World of Hyatt and Aeroplan are touching down with exciting new benefits for members to earn, convert and redeem points across both programs when they link their accounts.
• Aeroplan Elite Status Members and eligible Premium Credit Cardholders can now access exclusive benefits and fast-track their way to World of Hyatt Elite status.
• Members can now link their Aeroplan and World of Hyatt accounts to unlock new benefits, adding more rewards to their journey from the runway to the room key.
  

MONTRÉAL, July 15, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Air Canada’s Aeroplan and World of Hyatt announced today a collaboration that will give members more ways to earn and redeem rewards across travel experiences. Bringing together two of the travel industry’s beloved loyalty programs, the collaboration expands member benefits across a combined network of more than 1,300 destinations and 1,500 hotels. Whether flying with Air Canada or settling in at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts, members will enjoy greater flexibility and seamless opportunities to earn and use points throughout their travel journey.

“Hyatt is one of the world’s most admired hospitality brands, and we’re thrilled to bring World of Hyatt closer to Aeroplan Members,” said Scott O’Leary, Vice President, Loyalty and Product, Air Canada. “This collaboration creates meaningful value across the full travel journey, including new ways to earn, redeem and access benefits across both programs. It’s especially exciting for eligible Aeroplan Credit Cardholders, who will have the ability to earn accelerated Aeroplan points and World of Hyatt points on their Hyatt purchases – a truly unique feature.”

Rewards for Members Across Both Programs

Aeroplan Members can now redeem Aeroplan points for World of Hyatt Free Night Awards at eligible Hyatt hotels and resorts, including Category 1-4 and Category 1-7 Free Night Awards, starting at 25,000 Aeroplan points. World of Hyatt members can now redeem World of Hyatt points for a 30,000-point Aeroplan flight reward certificate, which can be applied toward flight rewards with Air Canada and its airline partners. Together, these new redemption options offer members greater flexibility in how they use reward points, giving travellers more choice across every trip.

“We’re excited to bring World of Hyatt and Aeroplan, Canada’s leading travel loyalty program, together to make travel even more rewarding for our members,” said Laurie Blair, Senior Vice President of Global Marketing and Loyalty, Hyatt. “This collaboration creates more ways for members to earn, redeem and enjoy benefits across both programs, while unlocking more seamless travel journeys from start to finish.” 

Unlock More with Aeroplan + World of Hyatt
Aeroplan and World of Hyatt members can enjoy accelerated earning opportunities and exclusive benefits across both programs – including additional perks for those who link their Aeroplan and World of Hyatt accounts.

• Aeroplan Members can now earn on eligible stays at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts. Members of both programs can elect to earn 500 Aeroplan points per stay in lieu of earning World of Hyatt points.
• By linking their accounts, Aeroplan Credit Cardholders with cards issued in Canada, can earn World of Hyatt Bonus Points and additional Aeroplan points on stays at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts:
  • Aeroplan Premium Credit Cardholders: earn 2 World of Hyatt Bonus Points + 2 Aeroplan points per eligible C$1 spent at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts.
  • Aeroplan Premium Business Credit Cardholders: earn 2 World of Hyatt Bonus Points + 2.5 Aeroplan points per eligible C$1 spent at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts.
  • Aeroplan Core Cardholders: earn 1 World of Hyatt Bonus Point + 1.5 Aeroplan points per eligible C$1 spent at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts.
  • Aeroplan Core Business Cardholders: earn 1 World of Hyatt Bonus Point + 2 Aeroplan points per eligible C$1 spent at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts.
• Members can convert World of Hyatt points to Aeroplan points at a 2:1 ratio starting at 5,000 points and additional point conversions thereafter may be made in 1,000-point increments.
• Linked Aeroplan Elite Status Members can exclusively convert Aeroplan points to World of Hyatt Bonus Points at 2:1, with a minimum of 500 Aeroplan points at a time, up to 100,000 Aeroplan points per day or 250,000 Aeroplan points per week.
  

Elite Benefits from Runway to Room Key
Aeroplan Elite Status Members, and Aeroplan Premium Credit Cardholders who link their Aeroplan and World of Hyatt accounts can now access benefits and will have opportunities to fast-track their way to status in both programs.

For Aeroplan Members

• Starting today, Aeroplan Elite Status Members and eligible premium credit cardholders can now unlock World of Hyatt status faster with an annual 90-day challenge:
  • Earn Discoverist status with 4 nights
  • Earn Explorist status with 10 nights
  • Earn Globalist status with 20 nights (rewarding Aeroplan Members on the ground with exclusive benefits such as free breakfast for up to four people and, as available, room upgrades and 4:00 p.m. late checkout)
• Aeroplan Premium Credit Cardholders will also receive:
  • Complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status that comes with late checkout (2:00 p.m.) as available, elite check-in and more.
  • Five Tier-Qualifying Night credits each calendar year to further accelerate progress toward higher World of Hyatt status.
  • Two attempts each year to earn World of Hyatt status through the annual 90-day status challenge.
  • The ability to earn points in both programs on eligible Hyatt stays, accelerating rewards while fast-tracking their way to status.
    

See here for terms of each of these offers or visit https://world.hyatt.com/content/gp/en/landing/aeroplan-terms.html.

For World of Hyatt Members

• As an annual benefit, World of Hyatt Discoverists, Explorists & Globalists will receive a C$20 Air Canada flight credit following linking their accounts.
• Coming later in 2026, World of Hyatt Explorists and Globalists will be able to register for annual challenges to fast-track to Aeroplan Elite Status.
  

See here for terms of each of these offers or visit https://world.hyatt.com/content/gp/en/landing/aeroplan-terms.html.

Together, Aeroplan and World of Hyatt are providing additional paths to earn, redeem and enjoy a more connected and rewarding travel experience. Members can now link their Aeroplan and World of Hyatt accounts to unlock a range of new benefits and exclusive offers by visiting this link. All offers, benefits, and rewards described herein are subject to terms and conditions.

Not a member yet? Visit: Hyatt.com/join and Aeroplan.com.

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.

For further information: https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/aeroplan/partners/hyatt.html#/

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of March 31, 2026, the Company’s portfolio included more than 1,500 hotels and all-inclusive properties in 83 countries across six continents. The Company’s offering includes brands in the Luxury Portfolio, including Park Hyatt®, Alila®, Miraval®, Impression by Secrets, and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®; the Lifestyle Portfolio, including Andaz®, Thompson Hotels®, The Standard®, Dream® Hotels, The StandardX®, Breathless Resorts & Spas®, JdV by Hyatt®, Bunkhouse® Hotels, and Me and All Hotels; the Inclusive Collection, including Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Hyatt Ziva®, Hyatt Zilara®, Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Hyatt Vivid® Hotels & Resorts, Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts, Alua Hotels & Resorts®, and Sunscape® Resorts & Spas; the Classics Portfolio, including Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Destination by Hyatt®, Hyatt Centric®, Hyatt Vacation Club®, and Hyatt®; and the Essentials Portfolio, including Caption by Hyatt®, Unscripted by Hyatt, Hyatt Place®, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Studios®, Hyatt Select, and UrCove. Subsidiaries of the Company operate the World of Hyatt® loyalty program, ALG Vacations®, Mr & Mrs Smith, Unlimited Vacation Club®, Amstar® DMC destination management services, and Trisept Solutions® technology services. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com.

About World of Hyatt

World of Hyatt is Hyatt’s award-winning guest loyalty program uniting participating locations in Hyatt’s Luxury Portfolio, including Park Hyatt®, Alila®, Miraval®, Impression by Secrets, and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®; the Lifestyle Portfolio, including Andaz®, Thompson Hotels®, The Standard®, Dream® Hotels, The StandardX®, Breathless Resorts & Spas®, JdV by Hyatt®, Bunkhouse® Hotels, and Me and All Hotels; the Inclusive Collection, including Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Hyatt Ziva®, Hyatt Zilara®, Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Hyatt Vivid® Hotels & Resorts, Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts, Alua Hotels & Resorts®, and Sunscape® Resorts & Spas; the Classics Portfolio, including Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Destination by Hyatt®, Hyatt Centric®, Hyatt Vacation Club®, and Hyatt®; and the Essentials Portfolio, including Caption by Hyatt®, Unscripted by Hyatt, Hyatt Place®, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Studios®, Hyatt Select, and UrCove. Members who book directly through Hyatt channels can enjoy personalized care and access to distinct benefits including Guest of Honor, confirmed suite upgrades at time of booking, diverse wellbeing offerings, digital key, and exclusive member rates. With 66 million members and counting, World of Hyatt offers a variety of ways to earn and redeem points for hotel stays, dining and spa services, wellbeing focused experiences through the World of Hyatt FIND experiences platform; as well as the benefits of Hyatt’s strategic loyalty collaboration with American Airlines AAdvantage®. Travelers can enroll for free at hyatt.com, download the World of Hyatt app for android and IOS devices and connect with World of Hyatt on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X.

Aeroplan Celebrated at the 2026 Freddie Awards

This marks Aeroplan’s fourth consecutive winning year at the Freddie Awards, the travel loyalty industry’s most respected honours, based on votes from more than 10 million loyalty members globally. Aeroplan is proud to be recognized for earning several top honours at this year’s Freddie Awards, including Program of the Year.

About Aeroplan

Air Canada’s Aeroplan is Canada’s leading travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million active members worldwide. Aeroplan Members can earn or redeem points with over 50 airlines to 1,300+ destinations globally, without blackouts or surcharges. Redeem for one-way short-haul flights starting at 6,000 points, Air Canada Vacations packages, and 9,000+ hotel partner properties, or shop brands like Amazon, Apple, and Dyson via the Aeroplan eStore, with redemptions starting at 3,500 points. To join Aeroplan and start turning daily purchases into points for flights, hotel stays, gifts and more, visit aircanada.com/aeroplan.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Headquartered in Montréal, Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million members worldwide. Members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of more than 50 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers a selection of vacation and Flight & Hotel packages, tours, cruises, car rentals, excursions, and a variety of activities and experiences. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. 

• Agreement covers 11,000 employees in Technical Operations, Maintenance and Operational Support, Airports, Cargo, Logistics and Supply

MONTRÉAL, July 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Air Canada said today it has reached a new tentative collective agreement with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) representing the airline’s 11,000 Technical Operations, Maintenance and Operational Support (TMOS) group, which includes Technical Operations, Airports and Cargo, Logistics and Supply employees.

The agreement recognizes the contributions and skills of Air Canada’s employees. The four-year collective agreement would take effect from April 1, 2026, and would remain in place until March 31, 2030.

The tentative agreement is subject to ratification by the union membership, which is expected to be completed over the coming days.

If ratified, this would represent the sixth collective agreement concluded at Air Canada this year.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Headquartered in Montréal, Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million members worldwide. Members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of more than 50 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers a selection of vacation and Flight & Hotel packages, tours, cruises, car rentals, excursions, and a variety of activities and experiences. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

• The annual golf tournament is the Foundation’s largest fundraising event
• In 2025, the Foundation donated $1.8 million to 473 charitable organizations
• Since 2012, the Foundation raised over $20 million for the health and well-being of children and youth

MONTRÉAL, July 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Air Canada Foundation hosted its 14^th annual Golf Tournament on Tuesday at Club de golf Le Mirage in Terrebonne, Québec. The event raised a record breaking $1.5 million to support the health and well-being of children and youth across Canada.

This year’s edition welcomed 375 guests and over 100 sponsors, including corporate partners, suppliers, and vendors who generously supported the Air Canada Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year. These funds will be disbursed through the Foundation’s annual grants program, providing much-needed assistance for children and youth from equity-deserving communities, and empowering children to soar toward their full potential.

“I want to thank every participant for having joined us for this very special occasion. I’ve had the privilege of being part of this event for quite a few years now and I remain amazed by the generosity of our guests, friends and partners, year after year,” said Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive Officer at Air Canada. “It takes a lot of people to pull this tournament together every year and I want to express my sincere gratitude to all our employees and retirees who volunteered this week and volunteer year-round in the Foundation’s events. Since 2012, the Foundation has raised $20 million raised for children across the country, an important accomplishment and I speak on behalf of everyone at Air Canada when I say this: thank you to every single person who has donated in the past 14 years. Thank you for sharing our mission and thank you for making a difference.”

“There is a lot to be proud of,” said Louise-Hélène Sénécal, Chair of the Air Canada Foundation. “Not only have we reached an incredible milestone, but days like these remind us all of how important and dear to so many people the Foundation’s mission is. A heartfelt thank you to all of our participants, this year and every year before, and also to our volunteers for their support in helping us make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families.”

The tournament was organized and hosted by 50 Air Canada employee and retiree volunteers. The Dr. Clown Foundation, long-term partner of the Foundation, was on site to interact with and delight guests, participate in photos, and share the meaningful impact of its therapeutic clown programs in hospitals and Indigenous communities. Sylas, this year’s Air Canada Foundation Hospital Transportation Program Ambassador and Alessandro, representing pediatric hospitals in British Columbia and Quebec, ran the highly popular lemonade stand and raised nearly $10,000.

In 2025, the Air Canada Foundation donated $1.8 million to charitable organizations across Canada. These donations helped provide approximately 550,000 meals to address food insecurity, including vital support for schools in Indigenous communities, and offered healthy meals to children during the summer period when schools are closed. It also helped realize 1,113 dreams for children facing adversity.

Last May, the Air Canada Foundation unveiled its 2025 Impact Report, showcasing the significant contributions made to communities throughout the year. The report highlights achievements across various areas, including programs, partnerships, fundraising efforts, and employee engagement initiatives.

About the Air Canada Foundation
The Air Canada Foundation, a not-for-profit organization focused on the health and well-being of children and youth, was launched in 2012. It offers both financial and in-kind support to Canadian-registered charities. Core programs include the Hospital Transportation Program (HTP), which redistributes Aeroplan points to partners of the Air Canada Foundation HTP, including 15 pediatric hospitals across the country, Hope Air and the David Foster Foundation. All donated points enable sick children to access the medical care they need away from home. The Air Canada Foundation, in collaboration with the airline, also engages directly in fundraising activities, such as the Every Bit Counts program, which encourages customers to donate loose change of all denominations on board flights or through collection containers available in Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges. The Foundation also offers continued support to major health-related causes that benefit Canadians and is an active participant in international humanitarian relief activity as the need arises. For more information about the Air Canada Foundation, please read the 2025 Impact Report.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Headquartered in Montréal, Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million members worldwide. Members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of more than 50 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers a selection of vacation and Flight & Hotel packages, tours, cruises, car rentals, excursions, and a variety of activities and experiences. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. 

MONTRÉAL, July 08, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Air Canada announced today that Anko Van der Werff will become its next President and Chief Executive Officer, and a member of the Board, by the end of January 2027. Mr. Van der Werff, currently President and Chief Executive Officer at Scandinavian Airlines, succeeds Michael Rousseau, who previously announced his retirement after 19 years with Air Canada.

“Our Board of Directors was impressed by the quality of experienced executives from around the world who expressed interest in the role,” said Vagn Sørensen, Chair of the Board. “We are delighted to have attracted and recruited an executive of Mr. Van der Werff’s stature to lead Air Canada. He has an exceptional breadth of international aviation experience and a proven 25-year track record, including his most recent forward-looking executive leadership at Scandinavian Airlines, Avianca Group, and Aeroméxico and earlier at KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (now Air France-KLM) and Qatar Airways. We are confident he will drive further value-creating growth and transformation while maintaining our commitment to disciplined capital allocation.”

“Air Canada is a globally recognized airline leader. It is an honour to be chosen to lead this iconic Canadian company as it advances its ambitions and strategy, builds on its award-winning employee culture and customer value proposition, and prepares for an even brighter future,” said Anko Van der Werff. “I look forward to working closely with Air Canada’s talented executive team and with all employees to fulfil our commitments to shareholders and customers. I am excited about relocating to Montréal and eager to get started.”

Mr. Sørensen concluded: “The Board is grateful to Michael Rousseau for his outstanding leadership and extraordinary contributions, which are in large part responsible for the enviable position Air Canada enjoys among global carriers. We thank him for that legacy and for his support with the transition.”

The selection of Mr. Van der Werff follows a comprehensive global search for the best person to lead Air Canada into the future. The search considered a number of performance criteria, including the ability to communicate in French.  

Mr. Rousseau’s retirement is effective August 31, 2026. He will continue to be available as needed throughout the transition. Following his departure and for the duration of the transition period, the Executive Committee will report to the Board of Directors.

Biographical notes

Anko Van der Werff will become President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada by the end of January 2027. A global aviation executive with more than 25 years of international airline leadership experience, he has held senior roles across Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. Prior to joining Air Canada, he served as President and CEO of SAS Scandinavian Airlines, leading the carrier through a significant period of transformation and strategic renewal.

Before joining SAS in 2021, Mr. Van der Werff was Chief Executive Officer of Avianca, one of Latin America’s leading airlines. Earlier in his career, he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Aeroméxico, held senior commercial leadership positions at Qatar Airways, and occupied a number of management roles at KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.

Mr. Van der Werff served on the Board of Governors of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) until June 2026 and has also served on the boards of several international organizations in the aviation, technology and business sectors.

He holds a master’s degree in law from Leiden University and completed executive studies at Harvard Business School.

A native of the Netherlands, Mr. Van der Werff speaks Dutch. He is able to communicate in French. Aside from those two languages and English, he also learned Spanish, Italian and Swedish at different levels over the course of his international career.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Headquartered in Montréal, Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million members worldwide. Members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of more than 50 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers a selection of vacation and Flight & Hotel packages, tours, cruises, car rentals, excursions, and a variety of activities and experiences. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

• New partnership gives Aeroplan Members more ways to earn throughout their airport journey
• Members can earn Aeroplan points at participating Avolta retail locations, including Hudson and Dufry stores, with HMSHost dining locations to follow later this year
• Partnership will expand to nearly 1,900 participating airport retail and food & beverage outlets across North America

MONTRÉAL, June 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aeroplan and Club Avolta are launching a new collaboration giving members more ways to earn points throughout their travel journey. Starting today, Aeroplan Members who link their Aeroplan and Club Avolta accounts through the Club Avolta app will be able to earn Aeroplan points on eligible purchases at more than 900 Avolta airport and travel retail locations.

Through the partnership, members will also earn one Aeroplan point for every C$2 spent on eligible purchases in-store at participating locations operated by Avolta’s Hudson and Dufry, and when pre-ordering through Avolta’s Reserve & Collect online service and via the company’s Club Avolta app.

Later this year, the partnership will expand to Avolta’s HMSHost dining locations, allowing members to earn on eligible food and beverage purchases at casual dining restaurants, quick-service outlets, bars, and Grab & Go locations. Once fully expanded, the partnership will include nearly 1,900 participating airport retail and food and beverage outlets across North America.

Travellers who link their Aeroplan and Club Avolta accounts can also unlock access to offers, rewards, and cross-promotions across Air Canada’s global network and at Avolta’s duty-free, convenience, and participating specialty retail outlets.

Participating locations include major Canadian airports such as:

• Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
• Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
• Calgary International Airport (YYC)
• Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)

Participating outlets also include major U.S. airports such as Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and Chicago O’Hare (ORD).

“The Club Avolta and Aeroplan partnership represents a transformational milestone for Club Avolta as our first North American airline loyalty integration,” said Atousa Ghoreichi, Avolta’s Senior Vice President of Digital, North America. “With Club Avolta, we’re enhancing the Air Canada customer journey by providing additional earning opportunities to Aeroplan Members. As our partnership grows to nearly 1,900 retail and food & beverage outlets in North America, there will be endless ways for travellers to earn.”

“Travel starts well before the boarding gate, and we want to make more of it rewarding for our members,” said Scott O’Leary, Vice President, Loyalty and Product at Air Canada. “Our partnership with Avolta brings Aeroplan into moments that are already part of how people travel –grabbing a bite before their flight, picking up a duty-free deal – creating more ways for our members to earn across the entire trip.”

With over 16 million members worldwide, Club Avolta is the world’s first global loyalty program spanning duty-free, duty-paid, and F&B that has redefined how travellers engage with retail, dining, and convenience services across the globe. Visit ClubAvolta.com and aircanada.com/aeroplan to join the community and start earning.

Aeroplan Celebrated at the 2026 Freddie Awards

This marks Aeroplan’s fourth consecutive winning year at the Freddie Awards, the travel loyalty industry’s most respected honours, based on votes from more than 9 million loyalty members globally. Aeroplan is proud to be recognized for earning several top honours at this year’s Freddie Awards, including Program of the Year.

About Aeroplan

Air Canada’s Aeroplan is Canada’s leading travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million active members worldwide. Aeroplan Members can earn or redeem points with over 50 airlines to 1,300+ destinations globally, without blackouts or surcharges. Redeem for one-way short-haul flights starting at 6,000 points, Air Canada Vacations packages, and 9,000+ hotel partner properties, or shop brands like Amazon, Apple, and Dyson via the Aeroplan eStore, with redemptions starting at 3,500 points. To join Aeroplan and start turning daily purchases into points for flights, hotel stays, gifts and more, visit aircanada.com/aeroplan.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Headquartered in Montréal, Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million members worldwide. Members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of more than 50 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers a selection of vacation and Flight & Hotel packages, tours, cruises, car rentals, excursions, and a variety of activities and experiences. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

About Avolta AG

Avolta AG (SIX: AVOL) is a global leader at the intersection of travel retail and food & beverage, delivering integrated shopping and dining experiences across airports, motorways, cruise lines, ferries, rail and other high-traffic travel locations worldwide.

Avolta’s global workforce operates in more than 70 countries and across nearly 1,000 locations, managing around 5,100 points of sale. Its traveler-centric strategy is built on digital, data and continuous innovation, while its scale and reach, across multiple travel environments, strengthens resilience and underpins consistent operational and financial performance.

To learn more, visit avoltaworld.com

26 June 2026

The Alliance will continue to provide seamless global connectivity through 14 member airlines in Seoul.

Asiana Airlines, headquartered in Seoul, will formally leave Star Alliance on December 16, 2026, 23:59 Korea Standard Time.

Since joining Star Alliance in 2003, Asiana Airlines has played a valued role in delivering seamless customer experiences across the network. On behalf of all member airlines, Star Alliance thanks Asiana Airlines and its employees for contributing to the exceptional customer experience that the Alliance is known for worldwide.

Star Alliance and Asiana Airlines will work closely together to ensure a seamless and coordinated experience for customers in the lead-up to the airline’s departure from the Alliance. Customers enrolled in any Star Alliance member airlines’ frequent flyer program may continue to earn miles on Asiana Airlines-operated flights departing on or before October 15, 2026. Customers may also continue to redeem miles for Star Alliance award tickets and upgrades on Asiana Airlines for travel completed on or before December 16, 2026, subject to the redemption policies and timelines of their respective frequent flyer programme. Customers are encouraged to consult their respective frequent flyer programme for details. Additionally, Star Alliance Gold and Silver status customers may continue to enjoy alliance status benefits, including priority services, when travelling on Asiana Airlines until December 16, 2026. Star Alliance Gold customers may also continue to enjoy lounge access, including at eligible Asiana Airlines lounges when travelling on the Star Alliance network.

Following Asiana Airlines’ departure from Star Alliance, 14 Star Alliance member airlines will continue to operate to and from Incheon International Airport, including Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air New Zealand, EVA Air, Ethiopian Airlines, Lufthansa, LOT Polish Airlines, SWISS, Singapore Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Thai Airways, Turkish Airlines, and United. Today, these member airlines operate more than 1,900 direct flights each month from Incheon International Airport to 29 destinations worldwide.

Effective December 17, 2026, Star Alliance will comprise 25 member airlines, continuing to make multi-airline global journeys effortless for customers.

About Star Alliance

Established in 1997 as the first truly global airline alliance, Star Alliance was founded on a customer value proposition of global reach, worldwide recognition, and seamless service. Today, guided by a vision for a world effortlessly connected, Star Alliance enriches customer journeys and reinforces loyalty by creating tailored solutions that empower member airlines beyond their individual capabilities.

The member airlines are: Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian Airlines, avianca, Brussels Airlines, Copa Airlines, Croatia Airlines, EGYPTAIR, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, ITA Airways, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Shenzhen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, South African Airways, SWISS, TAP Air Portugal, THAI, Turkish Airlines, United.

Star Alliance unites 26 of the world’s leading airlines, providing travellers with seamless access to over 1,150 airports across 190 countries – covering 90% of the world. Further connecting flights are offered by Star Alliance Connecting Partner Juneyao Airlines.

• The airline is operating a full summer schedule of more than 50 bucket list destinations across Canada for customers to explore the country, connect with loved ones, and experience the very best of the season
• Air Canada teams across the country are ready to welcome more customers on board as they officially kick off the busiest season of the year with Glowing Hearted hospitality
• Glowing Hearted hospitality, elevated comfort, and Canada Day surprises combine with digital tools and new in-flight offerings for a special celebration of the country by its proud flag carrier 
  

MONTRÉAL, June 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Air Canada expects to welcome more than 1 million customers on board over the course of the next week as it kicks off the summer season with a full schedule of flights across Canada. With more than 50 destinations across Canada, the airline is celebrating the very best of the country coast-to-coast-to-coast and beyond, connecting Canadians with the people, places and experiences that make Canada a very special place for all of us. With Canada Day upon us, customers can expect special touches throughout the travel experience that reflect the pride that every employee feels as the flag carrier for our country.

“For many Canadians, summer vacation is when they explore, discover, and share experiences with each other, whether it’s across Canada or at historically relevant sites abroad, like Juno Beach in France, and we’re proud of the role we play in the travel lives of Canadians,” said Tom Stevens, Vice President of Customer Experience and Service Operations at Air Canada. “We’re ready for the busy summer season and our teams are focused on guiding our customers with a very real sense of Canadian pride as we share the very best of the country with the world.” 

Glowing-Hearted Hospitality – from airport to arrival

Whether navigating busy terminals or settling in at 35,000 feet, Air Canada is committed to elevating every step of its customers’ travel journey. From dedicated, extra-care assistance for families, seniors, and customers with disabilities to premium lounge spaces and curated local treats, customers can expect seamless support and warm, uniquely Canadian hospitality this summer.

At the Airport: Premium Spaces and Seamless Support

• Air Canada Lounges and Cafés: Eligible customers can relax before their flight in Air Canada’s premium airport spaces, including newly upgraded Maple Leaf Lounges in Montreal, and new Air Canada Cafés in Vancouver, Montreal and Quebec City and our Signature Suites in Toronto and Vancouver.
• Aeroplan & Club Avolta Perks: Beginning June 30, 2026, Aeroplan Members can now earn rewards and access exclusive offers across participating airport shopping experiences, from grabbing a pre-flight magazine to browsing duty-free favourites via the Avolta app.
• Extra-Care Assistance: Dedicated on-ground support for families, seniors, unaccompanied minors, and customers requiring additional assistance.
• Accessible Travel Progress: Over the past three years, Air Canada has made significant progress in its journey to make travel more accessible for all through improvements to services, employee training, and programs that support customers with disabilities, rooted in consultation and collaboration with the disability community and accessibility advocates.

On Board: The Eh-levated In-Flight Experience

• Taste of Canada: Kick off your travel with complimentary beer and wine and premium snacks, as well as new Canadian spirits, local beers (including Molson Canadian and Creemore Springs), and new Célébration Mini Maple Leaf Cookies by Leclerc as a tasty treat on international flights departing Canada, starting July 1.
• Canadian Content: Air Canada’s APEX Five Star Alliance Award-winning in-flight entertainment with a curated collection of Canadian programming, including the Air Canada-sponsored travel documentary series How I Got Here.
• Coast-to-Coast Connectivity: Aeroplan Members, United MileagePlus members and Business Class customers can stay connected with fast, free, streaming-quality Wi-Fi on flights within North America and to Sun destinations. Sponsored by Bell.
• Canadian Comfort: Customers travelling internationally in Air Canada Signature Class can relax and recharge with our new amenity kits sourced by Canadian company Hunter Amenities, thoughtfully designed to support a more restful and restorative journey. Each kit includes a reusable contoured eye mask for enhanced comfort, soft cabin socks, and premium Canadian-made essentials, including skincare from award-winning Canadian brand Sahajan.

Navigating the Journey with Confidence 

Air Canada’s digital tools help customers travel with confidence throughout every stage of their journey. Through the Air Canada mobile app, customers can check in, access boarding passes, receive real-time flight updates, track baggage and mobility aids where available, and manage their Aeroplan account, all from one convenient place.

“Summer is when Canadians reconnect with family, explore new places, and create lasting memories, and our goal is to make every step of that journey feel easier and more connected,” said Carlos Faxas, Vice President of Digital Products at Air Canada. “The Air Canada mobile app gives customers access to real-time information throughout their trip, from check-in and boarding to flight updates and baggage tracking, helping them travel with greater confidence. Behind the scenes, technology is also supporting our airport and in-flight teams, allowing them to focus on what matters most: delivering a smooth, caring and distinctly Canadian travel experience.”

Know before you go!

• Get Travel Ready: Before heading to the airport, download the Air Canada mobile app to manage your booking, check travel document requirements, prepare for your trip and check-in starting 24 hours before departure.
• Travel with Confidence: Your boarding pass remains available offline in the Air Canada mobile app, where real-time updates help you stay informed with flight status, gate changes, baggage tracking and notifications when boarding begins.
• Arrive Early and Relax: Give yourself plenty of time to check bags, clear security, and settle in before departure.
  

      Insider Tips

• Travel Light: Eligible customers can check a carry-on sized bag for free at check-in and travel through the airport with less to carry. Bags can also be tracked throughout their journey in the Air Canada mobile app.
• Stay Connected Onboard: Join Aeroplan before your trip to enjoy fast, free Wi-Fi on eligible flights within North America and to Sun destinations. You’ll start earning points through everyday purchases with participating partners like Uber and Starbucks before your flight even takes off.
• AC Wallet: Your Aeroplan membership also equips you with the handy AC Wallet, which makes applying flight and promotional credits to your next trip easy.
  

Summer Travel Not Secured Yet? There’s Still Time to Plan a Getaway! 

Summer is the perfect time to explore Canada! From sturgeon fishing in British Columbia to cruising the St. Lawrence River through Ontario and Quebec, discover the coastlines, cities, and natural wonders from coast-to-coast-to-coast that make every region worth the trip. For those still planning their next getaway, visit aircanada.com to explore current offers and destinations across Canada.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Headquartered in Montréal, Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million members worldwide. Members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of more than 50 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers a selection of vacation and Flight & Hotel packages, tours, cruises, car rentals, excursions, and a variety of activities and experiences. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

• Three separate tentative agreements reached on June 12 and previously announced cover more than 11,000 employees in Finance, Clerical, Maintenance, Airport Airside Operations
• Two of the contracts ratified; ratification in progress for third agreement

MONTRÉAL, June 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Air Canada’s employees represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW), voted on two of the three tentative agreements reached on June 12, 2026. The IAMAW announced that those two tentative agreements for 170 Finance people and for 115 Clerical people at Air Canada have been ratified. Ratification is in progress for the third tentative agreement covering the balance or approximately 11,000 Maintenance, Airport Airside Operations, Cargo, and Cabin Services employees.

The IAMAW represents more than 11,000 employees in Maintenance, Airport Airside Operations, Cabin Services, and Cargo, plus Finance and Clerical at Air Canada, through three separate contracts.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Headquartered in Montréal, Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million members worldwide. Members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of more than 50 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers a selection of vacation and Flight & Hotel packages, tours, cruises, car rentals, excursions, and a variety of activities and experiences. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. For additional information, please see Air Canada’s TCFD disclosure.