Air Canada Business Class in an Embraer ERJ-190 to Toronto

Unlike many European airlines, Air Canada offers a true Business Class on short- and medium-haul flights – with wider seats, greater comfort, and consistent premium service. In early 2017, we flew from Seattle to Toronto and had ample time to relax and fully enjoy the flight on board Air Canada's Business Class in the Embraer ERJ-190.

Boarding in Seattle

After a hearty breakfast at the United Club Seattle (Lounge reviewWe set off for Gate A14 shortly after 7:30. Boarding for flight AC540 to Toronto started on time and proceeded surprisingly smoothly – in Canada, boarding is actually based on booking class and frequent flyer status.

Although the departure was slightly delayed due to the wrong catering being loaded on board initially, the crew remained friendly and calm. After the aircraft was de-iced, we finally taxied to the runway. While we waited for takeoff, the sun slowly rose over the snow-covered Mount Rainier – a breathtaking moment we won't soon forget.

What is the cabin layout like in Air Canada Business Class on the Embraer ERJ-190?

Air Canada's Business Class on the Embraer ERJ-190 has nine seats, distributed across three rows in a 1-2 configuration. We were seated in seats 2D and 2F, which are... SeatGuru They are considered particularly recommendable. The cabin felt compact but pleasantly quiet – an advantage of smaller regional jets.

The overhead compartments are only located on the left side and offer limited space. Our camera backpack therefore had to be stowed under the seat in front. Anyone traveling with larger carry-on luggage should board as early as possible to secure an available compartment.

What is the seat like in Air Canada Business Class on the Embraer ERJ-190?

Admittedly, the seats in the Air Canada Embraer fleet were showing signs of wear. The blue fabric upholstery looked a bit worn, but the padding was surprisingly comfortable. With a seat width of about 50 cm and generous legroom, the flight was very pleasant.

The tray table folded out from the armrest, and a pillow was provided at each seat. Blankets were available upon request. For a flight of approximately four hours, the comfort was perfectly adequate and significantly better than that of many European short-haul business class products.

What does the entertainment system in Air Canada Business Class on the Embraer ERJ-190 offer?

The seatback in front had an 8.9-inch touchscreen for controlling movies, TV shows, and music. The entertainment options were more than sufficient for the flight. Air Canada provided basic in-ear headphones, but we preferred to use our own.

We were pleased to find a USB charging port next to the screen and a power outlet under the seat – ideal for charging a camera or laptop. Wi-Fi wasn't available on this flight, but the in-flight entertainment offered a solid selection of Canadian series and international classics.

What food and drinks are available in Air Canada Business Class on medium-haul flights?

Service began about an hour after takeoff. A single flight attendant was responsible for the fully booked business class cabin and remained friendly despite the fast pace. The choices were an omelet or a fresh fruit platter – we opted for the latter. The fruit selection was a colorful mix: strawberries, pineapple, honeydew melon, grapefruit, blueberries, and oranges – along with yogurt and bread rolls.

The drinks selection was also good: coffee, tea, soft drinks, water, and alcoholic beverages were regularly refilled. Even though the service took a little while, we felt well taken care of on board.

Did you like this article? Then share it on social media! This way you'll be supporting our work. We also welcome your opinion in the Comments.