Air Canada’s Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse

Post originally Published May 5, 2024 || Last Updated May 5, 2024

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Air Canada's Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse - Tracing the 767's Remarkable History with Air Canada


Air Canada’s Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse

The airline was one of the launch customers for the 767, introducing the aircraft into service in 1983.

Over the years, Air Canada operated a total of 23 Boeing 767-200 and 767-300 aircraft, which played a significant role as a workhorse on both domestic and international routes.

Known for its reliability, efficiency, and passenger comfort, the 767 fleet accumulated millions of hours of flying time and carried countless passengers before being phased out in favor of newer, more fuel-efficient models like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

The retirement of the 767 marked the end of an era for Air Canada, but its legacy will endure as a testament to the aircraft's durability and dependability.

Air Canada was one of the launch customers for the Boeing 767, introducing the aircraft into service in 1983, marking a significant milestone in the airline's history.

The 767 played a crucial role in Air Canada's fleet expansion, serving as a reliable workhorse on both domestic and international routes, and accumulating millions of hours of flying time over the years.

In 1985, the 767 received 120-minute ETOPS approval, enabling it to operate two hours away from the nearest airport, a testament to the aircraft's advanced engineering and safety features.

Air Canada utilized the 767 to pioneer air-to-ground telephone services and introduce Executive Class in 1986, enhancing the passenger experience on long-haul flights.

In 1986, Air Canada's 767 fleet achieved a notable milestone by completing the first non-stop transatlantic flight, demonstrating the aircraft's exceptional range and performance capabilities.

What else is in this post?

  1. Air Canada's Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse - Tracing the 767's Remarkable History with Air Canada
  2. Air Canada's Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse - Workhorse of the Skies - The 767's Versatility and Range
  3. Air Canada's Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse - Commemorating the Final Flights - Emotional Farewells
  4. Air Canada's Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse - Behind the Scenes - Maintaining a Veteran Fleet
  5. Air Canada's Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse - A New Era - Air Canada's Fleet Modernization Plans
  6. Air Canada's Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse - Fond Memories - Passengers Share Their 767 Stories

Air Canada's Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse - Workhorse of the Skies - The 767's Versatility and Range


The Boeing 767 continues to be a valuable asset for airlines around the world, even as Air Canada has bid farewell to its iconic 767 fleet. While Air Canada has retired its 767 aircraft, the versatile and efficient "Workhorse of the Skies" remains in service with other carriers, including Delta and United, who appreciate its adaptability for long-haul and domestic routes. The 767's remarkable history with Air Canada, spanning over three decades, is a testament to the aircraft's durability and reliability, making it a trusted companion for generations of travelers. The Boeing 767 was the first wide-body aircraft to feature a two-crew cockpit, eliminating the need for a flight engineer and reducing operating costs. The 767 was designed with a unique "supercritical" wing design, which improved fuel efficiency and allowed the aircraft to fly at higher altitudes, reducing turbulence and providing a smoother ride for passengers. In 1985, the 767 received Extended-range Twin-engine Operational Performance Standards (ETOPS) approval, enabling it to fly up to 120 minutes away from the nearest airport, a significant milestone that expanded the aircraft's operational capabilities. The 767's cargo hold can be easily converted to accommodate a mix of passenger and freight, allowing airlines to adapt the aircraft's configuration to suit changing market demands. With a maximum takeoff weight of up to 450,000 pounds, the 767 can carry a substantial payload, making it an attractive option for airlines operating high-density routes. The 767 was the first wide-body aircraft to feature a digital flight control system, improving handling characteristics and reducing pilot workload. Despite being introduced in the early 1980s, the 767 remains a popular choice for airlines, with many carriers, including Delta and United, continuing to operate the aircraft long-haul routes due to its impressive range and flexibility.

Air Canada's Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse - Commemorating the Final Flights - Emotional Farewells


Air Canada bid a poignant farewell to its beloved Boeing 767 fleet, with the final passenger flight operating on August 1, 2019.

The last 767, registered as C-FCAE, had accumulated over 138,000 flying hours before being retired, a testament to the aircraft's remarkable longevity and reliability.

The last Boeing 767 passenger flight operated by Air Canada was on August 1, 2019, marking the end of an era for the airline's iconic 767 fleet after over 38 years of service.

One of the most famous Air Canada Boeing 767s, fleet no. 604, also known as the "Gimli Glider," was retired and flown to a storage area in the Mojave Desert for preservation.

The Air Canada Boeing 767 fleet accumulated over 20,845 flights in 2019 alone, demonstrating the aircraft's remarkable reliability and versatility as a workhorse for the airline.

In 1985, the Boeing 767 was the first aircraft to receive 120-minute ETOPS (Extended-range Twin-engine Operational Performance Standards) approval, allowing it to fly longer distances with enhanced safety and efficiency.

Air Canada's first Boeing 767, delivered in October 1982, was initially designed to be operated with a three-pilot crew, although the airline's early 767s were configured for a two-pilot cockpit.

Despite the retirement of Air Canada's 767 fleet, the aircraft remains a popular choice for other airlines, such as Delta and United, due to its impressive range, cargo versatility, and fuel efficiency.

The Boeing 767's unique "supercritical" wing design, introduced in the early 1980s, improved the aircraft's fuel efficiency and allowed it to operate at higher altitudes, providing a smoother ride for passengers.

After more than 20 years in the skies, Air Canada's last Boeing 767, Fin 682 (C-FCAE), had logged over 138,000 flying hours before being retired, a testament to the aircraft's durability and reliability.

Air Canada's Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse - Behind the Scenes - Maintaining a Veteran Fleet


Air Canada has partnered with Boeing to provide real-time maintenance support for its entire fleet, including the aging Boeing 767 aircraft.

The airline has also converted some of its 767 passenger aircraft into freighter aircraft, demonstrating the versatility and adaptability of this veteran fleet.

Despite the retirement of the 767 in favor of newer, more fuel-efficient models like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Air Canada's commitment to maintaining and optimizing its veteran fleet reflects its dedication to operational efficiency and customer service.

Air Canada's Boeing 767 fleet has accumulated over 20,845 flights in 2019 alone, demonstrating the aircraft's remarkable reliability and versatility as a workhorse for the airline.

The Boeing 767 was the first wide-body aircraft to feature a digital flight control system, improving handling characteristics and reducing pilot workload.

In 1985, the 767 received 120-minute ETOPS (Extended-range Twin-engine Operational Performance Standards) approval, enabling it to operate two hours away from the nearest airport, a significant milestone that expanded the aircraft's operational capabilities.

The 767's cargo hold can be easily converted to accommodate a mix of passenger and freight, allowing airlines to adapt the aircraft's configuration to suit changing market demands.

With a maximum takeoff weight of up to 450,000 pounds, the 767 can carry a substantial payload, making it an attractive option for airlines operating high-density routes.

FedEx, a major operator of the 767, recorded 57,423 flights with the aircraft in 2019, underscoring the enduring popularity of the "Workhorse of the Skies."

The 767's unique "supercritical" wing design, introduced in the early 1980s, improved the aircraft's fuel efficiency and allowed it to operate at higher altitudes, providing a smoother ride for passengers.

Despite being retired by Air Canada, the 767 remains a valuable asset for other airlines, including Delta and United, who appreciate its adaptability for long-haul and domestic routes.

Air Canada's famous "Gimli Glider," fleet no. 604, was one of the last 767s to be retired and has been preserved, serving as a testament to the aircraft's remarkable engineering and the skills of its pilots.

Air Canada's Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse - A New Era - Air Canada's Fleet Modernization Plans


Air Canada has announced a significant fleet modernization plan, including the order of 18 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner aircraft and a major cockpit and avionics system upgrade for its A320 Family fleet.

This strategic move aims to enhance the airline's operational efficiency, passenger experience, and alignment with the latest advancements in aircraft technology.

As part of this modernization effort, Air Canada is also retiring its iconic Boeing 767 fleet, bidding farewell to a trusted workhorse that has served the airline for over three decades.

Air Canada is the first North American airline to order 18 fuel-efficient Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner aircraft, replacing a previously announced order for two Boeing 777 freighter aircraft.

The airline's fleet modernization plan includes a significant cockpit and avionics system upgrade package for its A320 Family aircraft, enhancing flight safety, efficiency, and convenience for pilots and passengers.

Air Canada's ongoing fleet renewal program will see the introduction of the Airbus A220 aircraft alongside the 18 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, further modernizing the airline's fleet.

The retirement of Air Canada's iconic Boeing 767 fleet marks the end of an era, as the aircraft has been a trusted workhorse for the airline for over three decades, accumulating millions of flight hours.

The Boeing 767 was the first wide-body aircraft to feature a two-crew cockpit, eliminating the need for a flight engineer and reducing operating costs for airlines.

In 1985, the 767 received 120-minute ETOPS (Extended-range Twin-engine Operational Performance Standards) approval, enabling it to fly up to two hours away from the nearest airport, a significant milestone for the aircraft.

The 767's unique "supercritical" wing design, introduced in the early 1980s, improved the aircraft's fuel efficiency and allowed it to operate at higher altitudes, providing a smoother ride for passengers.

One of Air Canada's most famous Boeing 767s, the "Gimli Glider," was retired and flown to a storage area in the Mojave Desert for preservation, commemorating the aircraft's remarkable engineering and the skills of its pilots.

Despite the retirement of Air Canada's 767 fleet, the aircraft remains a popular choice for other airlines, such as Delta and United, due to its impressive range, cargo versatility, and fuel efficiency.

FedEx, a major operator of the 767, recorded 57,423 flights with the aircraft in 2019, underscoring the enduring popularity of the "Workhorse of the Skies."

Air Canada's Iconic Boeing 767 Fleet A Farewell to a Trusted Workhorse - Fond Memories - Passengers Share Their 767 Stories


Passengers who have flown on Air Canada's iconic Boeing 767 fleet fondly remember the aircraft's spacious cabin, comfortable seating, and superior in-flight entertainment.

Many appreciated the plane's quieter and smoother ride compared to other aircraft, as well as its use for both domestic and international flights, often serving popular sun destinations.

The retirement of the 767 marks the end of an era, but its legacy as a trusted workhorse will endure in the memories of those who experienced its reliable and comfortable operations.

Air Canada's Boeing 767 Fin 682 (C-FCAE) registered over 138,000 flying hours before its retirement, making it the world leader in terms of flying hours for the fleet type.

The Boeing 767 was the first aircraft to receive 120-minute ETOPS approval, enabling it to fly longer distances from the nearest airport, making oceanic crossings more efficient.

Air Canada's 767s made history in 1986 by introducing the first air-to-ground telephone service by a Canadian airline, enhancing the passenger experience.

Executive Class was also introduced on Air Canada's 767 fleet in 1986, offering a premium travel experience.

The Boeing 767-200 is known for the famous "Gimli Glider" incident in 1983, where a 5-month-old aircraft (C-GAUN) successfully glided to a landing after running out of fuel.

The 767 was the first wide-body aircraft to feature a two-crew cockpit, eliminating the need for a flight engineer and reducing operating costs for airlines.

The 767's unique "supercritical" wing design, introduced in the early 1980s, improved the aircraft's fuel efficiency and allowed it to operate at higher altitudes, providing a smoother ride for passengers.

FedEx, a major 767 operator, recorded 57,423 flights with the aircraft in 2019, demonstrating the enduring popularity of the "Workhorse of the Skies."

Despite Air Canada's retirement of the 767, the aircraft remains a valuable asset for other airlines, such as Delta and United, due to its impressive range, cargo versatility, and fuel efficiency.

Air Canada's Boeing 767 fleet accumulated over 20,845 flights in 2019 alone, showcasing the aircraft's remarkable reliability and versatility as a workhorse for the airline.

One of the last 767s retired by Air Canada, the famous "Gimli Glider," has been preserved and is on display, serving as a testament to the aircraft's exceptional engineering and the skills of its pilots.

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