Air Canada
TSX:AC
Air Canada
In the skies above the expansive Canadian landscape, Air Canada has carved a path as the nation's flag carrier, weaving its services across continents. Originating in 1937 as Trans-Canada Air Lines, the company soared through decades of aviation evolution, rebranding itself as Air Canada in 1965. Today, it stands as a robust player in the airline industry, providing passenger and cargo transport services. Anchored in Montreal, Quebec, Air Canada operates a vast network that spans over 200 destinations worldwide, making it a vital conduit for both international and domestic travel. It boasts a fleet of diverse aircraft, including Boeing, Airbus, and Embraer, allowing it to cater to varying demands from short hauls to long intercontinental routes.
Air Canada's business model hinges on generating revenue from multiple streams. The passenger segment remains the core of its operations, offering tiers of service from economy to premium. This is supplemented by ancillary services such as seat selection, baggage fees, and in-flight purchases. Furthermore, the airline capitalizes on its Aeroplan loyalty program, fostering customer retention and engagement. Cargo transport plays a complementary role in its revenue structure, with increased focus on e-commerce shipments and vital freight services. Additionally, the airline benefits from cross-country partnerships and alliances, notably as a founding member of the Star Alliance, which enhances global connectivity and network reach. Through these endeavors, Air Canada seeks to pilot above turbulence and navigate towards financial sustainability.
In the skies above the expansive Canadian landscape, Air Canada has carved a path as the nation's flag carrier, weaving its services across continents. Originating in 1937 as Trans-Canada Air Lines, the company soared through decades of aviation evolution, rebranding itself as Air Canada in 1965. Today, it stands as a robust player in the airline industry, providing passenger and cargo transport services. Anchored in Montreal, Quebec, Air Canada operates a vast network that spans over 200 destinations worldwide, making it a vital conduit for both international and domestic travel. It boasts a fleet of diverse aircraft, including Boeing, Airbus, and Embraer, allowing it to cater to varying demands from short hauls to long intercontinental routes.
Air Canada's business model hinges on generating revenue from multiple streams. The passenger segment remains the core of its operations, offering tiers of service from economy to premium. This is supplemented by ancillary services such as seat selection, baggage fees, and in-flight purchases. Furthermore, the airline capitalizes on its Aeroplan loyalty program, fostering customer retention and engagement. Cargo transport plays a complementary role in its revenue structure, with increased focus on e-commerce shipments and vital freight services. Additionally, the airline benefits from cross-country partnerships and alliances, notably as a founding member of the Star Alliance, which enhances global connectivity and network reach. Through these endeavors, Air Canada seeks to pilot above turbulence and navigate towards financial sustainability.
Exceptional Q4: Air Canada delivered a strong Q4 with revenue of $5.8 billion, up nearly 7% year-over-year, and record adjusted EBITDA of $867 million, a 25% increase.
Full-Year Performance: 2025 revenue reached $22.4 billion, a 1% increase from 2024, and adjusted EBITDA totaled $3.1 billion, beating guidance due to robust late-year demand.
Shareholder Returns: Over $850 million was returned to shareholders through share repurchases during 2025, funded entirely from free cash flow.
Operational Improvements: Air Canada improved on-time performance and Net Promoter Score, and was awarded best airline in North America at the 2025 Skytrax Awards.
2026 Outlook: Air Canada expects capacity growth of 3.5%–5.5% and adjusted EBITDA between $3.35–$3.75 billion, despite cost pressures from labor and fleet investments.
Fleet Renewal: Plans include delivery of up to 35 aircraft in 2026, introduction of Airbus A321XLR and Boeing 787-10, and an order for eight Airbus A350-1000 aircraft for delivery from 2030.
Cost Discipline: Executed $150 million in recurring cost reductions in 2025, with another $150 million planned for 2026.
Strong Liquidity: Ended 2025 with $7.5 billion in liquidity and a net leverage ratio of 1.7x.
