First Impressions & Cabin Comfort
Hey there, jetsetters and travel enthusiasts! Have you ever wanted to look like a boss while feeling like one, too, when traveling? Air Canada’s Business Class (Signature Class) on the Boeing 787-9 from Singapore to Vancouver leaves a strong first impression with its sleek, modern cabin in a 1-2-1 configuration. The pod-style seats provide direct aisle access for every passenger, offering both privacy and convenience. The cabin feels spacious, featuring a subdued color palette that enhances the premium vibe. While the seats are comfortable and well-designed, some passengers may find them slightly narrower and lacking a door for added privacy compared to competitors like Singapore Airlines or Qatar Airways. Nonetheless, the overall ambiance is polished and inviting, setting the stage for a relaxing long-haul flight.
The Seat: Lie-Flat Comfort & Storage
The highlight of the experience is undoubtedly the full lie-flat seat, which transforms into a comfortable bed with a plush duvet and large pillow. The seat controls are intuitive, allowing easy adjustment between upright, lounging, and sleeping positions. Storage is ample, with a side compartment for personal items, a literature pocket, and a small closet for hanging a jacket. However, the seat padding could be a bit plusher for a truly luxurious sleep experience, which is something to note for those prioritizing rest above all else.
Amenities: Acqua Di Parma & Beyond
Air Canada elevates its amenity game with a stylish Acqua Di Parma toiletries kit, featuring the Italian brand’s signature refreshing citrus scent. The kit includes moisturizer, lip balm, and a refreshing face mist, perfect for staying hydrated during the flight. Noise-canceling headphones, a large pillow, and a cozy blanket round out the comfort offerings. While the amenities are of high quality, some competitors offer more extensive kits (such as Emirates’ Bulgari pouches), leaving a little room for Air Canada to further improve.
Dining: Gourmet Meals & Champagne
The dining experience begins with a welcome drink, Duval-Leroy Champagne Brut Reserve, a nice touch that sets a celebratory tone. The meal service includes a multi-course menu with choices like seared beef tenderloin or miso-glazed salmon, all presented on elegant tableware. I chose the seared beef, and was not disappointed in the choice at all, the meal came with a nice bed of rice, a pepper mix on the side, a sourdough roll, garden salad, and fresh smoked salmon on crackers with cheese. There was also a breakfast option, but this was limited. I went for the omelet, which I've heard was a must-have, and is a great way to wake up in the sky.
The food is flavorful, though not quite at the level of Asian or Middle Eastern carriers who are very well known for their in-flight cuisine. A self-serve snack area with light bites, fresh fruit, and beverages, including beers, mid to high-end wines, and spirits, is available throughout the flight, ensuring no one goes hungry or thirsty. Though the drinks are plentiful, do try the Aperol Spritz, which is a delightfully refreshing drink.
In-Flight Entertainment: Screen & Selection
The 18-inch HD touchscreen is a great size for movies and shows, with a responsive handheld remote that reminds me of a handheld video game console as a backup. Air Canada’s entertainment system, while not the most extensive, offers a solid selection of Hollywood blockbusters, TV series, and music. The noise-canceling headphones help immerse you in the content, though cinephiles might miss the ultra-large screens and curated playlists found on airlines like Emirates or Qatar. Still, it’s more than enough to keep you entertained for the 15+ hour journey, especially with the lack of Wi-Fi on the flight.
Service & Little Touches
Air Canada’s crew is professional and courteous, though service can feel a bit transactional compared to the warm, personalized attention on airlines such as ANA or Cathay Pacific. The flight attendants are efficient but not overly engaging, which may suit travelers who prefer a low-key experience. Little luxuries such as pre-landing hot towels and a well-stocked amenity kit help maintain a premium feel, but the service doesn’t quite reach the five-star standard of some competitors.
Final Verdict: 7.5/10 – Great, But Room to Improve
Air Canada’s Business Class on the 787-9 delivers a strong overall experience with its comfortable lie-flat seat, quality amenities, and solid dining options. However, when stacked against the best in the industry, it falls just short in areas like seat padding, service warmth, and food presentation. For travelers flying between Singapore and Vancouver, it’s a reliable and comfortable option, but not quite the absolute best in the sky. A 7.5/10 feels fair: very good, with room to refine the finer details.
Would I fly it again? Yes! especially if the price is right, but if given the choice, some competitors might edge it out for a more indulgent experience, such as Singapore Airlines or Emirates. I was able to receive this flight at about 116,000 points utilizing a 30% bonus on the transfer through American Express. This is what I would recommend for any of my readers to utilize credit card transfer partners, especially if there is a bonus.
Please, if you would like to support me and/or this blog, feel free to comment and follow. If you would like to sign up for the American Express card, here’s my Amex referral link. This really helps the blog as well, so thank you in advance. Hope to see you in the sky, or on your next adventure!
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