Air Canada Premium Economy 737 MAX Review: London-Halifax

Air Canada's premium economy on the Boeing 737 MAX 8 for the London-Halifax route offers a distinctive transatlantic experience, utilizing aircraft typically configured for domestic North American flights. This daily, year-round service is notable as one of the shortest non-stop transatlantic flights to London. A key feature is that the “premium economy” seats are actually larger domestic business class seats, providing a significant benefit of superior width (21 inches, two inches wider than typical premium economy) and a comfortable 38-inch seat pitch with excellent 6-inch recline, adjustable headrests, leg rests, and footrests. The cabin also boasts substantial storage within the armrests.

Onboard entertainment is a highlight, featuring 13-inch HD screens with over 300 films and full seasons from Apple TV, Disney+, and HBO MAX, despite lacking Bluetooth pairing for headphones. Wi-Fi is available, with free messaging for Aeroplan members and various paid packages for browsing. The meal service begins with a hot towel and includes a choice of two hot dishes, served on proper crockery and glassware, with the reviewer praising the quality and freshness. A second, smaller meal is also provided.

However, there are areas for improvement. The pillow and blanket are basic, identical to economy class, and the supplied headphones are disposable. The cabin divider between premium economy and economy is often left open, allowing economy passengers access to the front lavatory, which the reviewer found confusing for a long-haul premium cabin. There were also minor glitches with the in-flight entertainment system, such as incorrect flight duration display and non-functional menu browsing. Additionally, the ground experience at Heathrow lacked dedicated premium economy check-in, and lounge access is not included without Star Alliance status. This specific 737 MAX configuration is temporary, as the route will transition to A320-family aircraft next year, potentially introducing lie-flat business class in the future. Despite these minor drawbacks, the wider seats and quality catering make it a comfortable option for this short transatlantic journey.

(Source: https://www.headforpoints.com/2025/12/15/review-air-canada-premium-economy-boeing-737max/)