The Review: Air Canada Business Class 787-9 London-Montreal is a detailed personal experience that covers the airline’s premium long-haul service between London Heathrow and Montreal. It focuses on cabin comfort, seat design, onboard service, dining, and entertainment, offering valuable insights for travelers considering Air Canada’s Business Class on this popular transatlantic route.
Flying in Business Class is more than just getting extra legroom—it’s about comfort, attention to detail, and a smooth journey. This flight combines modern features, quality service, and the charm of Canadian hospitality, making it a great option for both business and leisure travelers.
In this Review: Air Canada Business Class 787-9 London-Montreal, you’ll find honest feedback about what works and what could improve. From the layout of the reverse herringbone seat to the quality of food and Wi-Fi, the Review: Air Canada Business Class 787-9 London-Montreal gives you a clear idea of what to expect on board.
Booking Strategy and Pre-Flight Planning
Getting the Best Value
Air Canada business class pricing on the London-Montreal route fluctuates wildly. I’ve seen fares range from $2,200 to $6,800 depending on season and demand. The sweet spot? Book 8-12 weeks out for shoulder season travel.
Aeroplan redemption offers better value than cash on this route. You’ll need 60,000-70,000 points plus taxes for business class, compared to similar Star Alliance Gold partner options. The PQP (Premier Qualifying Points) earning potential makes this attractive for mileage run enthusiasts.
Aircraft Configuration Matters
Not all Air Canada 787-9 aircraft are identical. The seat configuration on this route features the older reverse herringbone layout with direct aisle access for every passenger. While not the newest design, it’s proven and functional.
Key specifications:
- Seat pitch: 78 inches
- Seat width: 22 inches
- Bed length: 78 inches
- Cabin layout: 30 business class seats in 1-2-1 configuration
Heathrow Terminal 2 Experience
Check-in moved smoothly through Terminal 2’s dedicated business class counters. The Maple Leaf Lounge access comes standard, though it’s nothing spectacular compared to British Airways’ offerings in the same terminal.
Pro tip: The lounge gets crowded between 4-7 PM when multiple transatlantic flights depart. Arrive early or expect limited seating.
The Boeing 787-9 Business Class Cabin
First Impressions
Stepping into the cabin layout, you immediately notice the dated feel. This isn’t Virgin Atlantic’s newer Upper Class or British Airways’ refreshed Club World. The reverse herringbone configuration maximizes privacy but feels cramped compared to modern alternatives.
Seat 8K sits perfectly positioned – far enough from galley noise yet close enough for quick service. The window seat provides excellent views during approach into Montreal YUL, though storage feels limited compared to newer designs.
Seating Comfort Analysis
The adjustable seat transforms into a lie-flat bed with decent comfort for shorter passengers. At 6’2″, I found the footwell restrictive and the slight incline noticeable throughout the night.
Comfort features include:
- Massage function with multiple settings
- Lumbar support adjustment
- Leg rest with multiple positions
- Tray table that extends fully
- Counterspace for laptops and devices
Storage limitations become apparent quickly. The side compartments barely fit a laptop, and the overhead air vent positioning makes accessing storage awkward during bed mode.
Technology and Connectivity
The IFE (In-Flight Entertainment) system runs on older hardware with a 17-inch touchscreen. Response time lags noticeably, and the remote control feels necessary for comfortable navigation.
Tech specs:
- USB-A ports: 2 per seat
- Power outlet: Universal AC power
- WiFi: Available but expensive ($20+ for full flight)
- Seatback screen: 17-inch with average resolution
The settings menu allows customization, but don’t expect the intuitive interface found on newer aircraft. Movies and TV selection covers mainstream content without extensive international options.
Service Standards and Cabin Crew Performance
Pre-Departure Service
The flight attendant team delivered individual welcome greetings with genuine warmth. The purser greeting felt personal rather than scripted, setting positive expectations for the cabin service.
Pre-departure drink service included champagne, though the selection felt limited compared to premium carriers. The crew’s attention to detail showed in small gestures like offering newspapers and explaining meal service timing.
Meal Service Execution
Air Canada’s dine-on-demand concept sounds appealing but execution falls short. The slow service meant my Arabic Mezze appetizer arrived 90 minutes after departure, with the beef brisket main course following another hour later.
Service timeline:
- Departure: 4:15 PM
- Drink service: 5:30 PM
- Appetizer: 6:45 PM
- Main course: 7:45 PM
- Pre-arrival snack: 10:30 PM
The friendly crew made up for timing issues with frequent drink top-ups and genuine hospitality. Unlike some carriers, I never saw crew members using mobile phones during service periods.
Lavatory Access and Cleanliness
Lavatory access proved convenient from seat 8K, with door 2L closest. The clean restroom maintained standards throughout the flight, though limited amenities compared to premium carriers disappointed.
The loo with a view concept doesn’t apply here – standard 787-9 lavatories without special features. Door 1L and 2R locations serve the forward cabin adequately.
Food and Beverage Deep Dive
Menu Design and Options
The menu design looks professional but lacks the elevated presentation of top-tier carriers. Pre-order meals weren’t available on this revenue ticket, limiting customization options.
Appetizer experience: The Arabic Mezze delivered authentic flavors with quality ingredients. Portion size felt appropriate for the flight length, though presentation could improve.
Main Course Reality Check
The beef brisket arrived as the disappointing main course of the flight. Dry beef dominated the plate, with sides that felt reheated rather than freshly prepared. The food quality fell below expectations for this price point.
Alternative options included chicken and vegetarian choices, though fellow passengers reported similar execution issues. The Spanish red wine pairing worked well despite food shortcomings.
Beverage Service Standards
Drink selection covered basics without premium options. The Aperol Spritz mixed well, and sparkling water stayed readily available throughout the flight. Champagne quality met expectations without exceeding them.
Wine list highlights:
- Canadian wines: Limited selection
- International options: Standard choices
- Spirits: Full bar available
- Non-alcoholic: Comprehensive selection
Sleep Quality and Comfort
Bed Mode Conversion
Converting to bed mode requires flight attendant assistance initially, though the process becomes intuitive. The lie-flat bed provides adequate space for side sleeping, though the slight incline remains noticeable.
Bedding quality impressed with the mattress pad adding genuine comfort. The plush pillow and cuddle pillow combination worked well, though the blanket felt thin for the cabin temperature.
Sleep Environment
Noise levels stayed reasonable throughout the flight, with the 787-9’s quieter cabin helping. The overhead air vent positioning allows personalized airflow control, crucial for comfortable sleeping.
Privacy factors:
- Reverse herringbone design maximizes privacy
- Window seats offer better sleeping positions
- Aisle access remains available without disturbing neighbors
- Cabin atmosphere stays dim during rest periods
Sleeping challenges included the constricted sleeping space for taller passengers and tough to sleep conditions due to the slight incline. The footwell design particularly affects comfort for passengers over 6 feet.
Entertainment and Connectivity Options
IFE System Performance
The IFE system runs older software with connection issues occurring sporadically. The touchscreen responsiveness lags behind modern standards, making the remote controller essential for comfortable navigation.
Content selection covers mainstream movies and TV without extensive international programming. The system includes games and music, though variety feels limited compared to Emirates or Singapore Airlines.
WiFi and Internet Access
Onboard internet costs $19.95 for the full flight with acceptable speeds for email and messaging. Streaming video proves challenging, and WiFi reliability varies throughout the route.
Connectivity features:
- Full flight WiFi: $19.95
- Hourly options: Available
- Messaging apps: Generally reliable
- Video streaming: Limited success
- Work capabilities: Adequate for basic tasks
Arrival Experience in Montreal
Descent and Landing
The descent announcement came with detailed weather information for Montreal YUL. Touchdown occurred smoothly despite challenging weather conditions, showcasing the 787-9’s advanced systems.
Taxi time to Terminal 5 took approximately 15 minutes, with jetbridge connection proceeding efficiently. The crew maintained service standards through arrival, offering pre-landing drinks and collecting service items promptly.
Ground Experience
Passport control moved quickly for business class passengers with priority processing. Baggage delivery took 25 minutes, reasonable for international arrivals.
Connection opportunities through Montreal YUL work well for passengers continuing to other Canadian destinations or the US. The airport layout supports efficient transfers.
Value Proposition Analysis
Competitive Comparison
Air Canada business class on this route competes directly with British Airways Club World and Virgin Atlantic Upper Class. Here’s how they stack up:
| Feature | Air Canada | British Airways | Virgin Atlantic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seat comfort | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Food quality | Average | Good | Excellent |
| Service | Very Good | Good | Excellent |
| Price point | Competitive | Higher | Highest |
| Frequent flyer | Aeroplan benefits | Avios earning | Virgin Points |
Best Booking Scenarios
Air Canada makes sense when:
- Aeroplan redemption offers better value
- Star Alliance Gold benefits matter
- Direct routing preferences override service quality
- Price sensitivity drives decisions
Avoid when:
- Sleep quality is paramount
- Food service expectations are high
- Latest aircraft features are required
- Ethiopian Airlines A350 alternatives exist
Pricing Sweet Spots
Revenue ticket prices vary dramatically by season:
- Peak summer: $4,500-$6,800
- Shoulder season: $2,800-$4,200
- Winter months: $2,200-$3,500
- Last-minute: Often $5,000+
Aeroplan redemption typically offers 30-40% better value than cash fares, especially during peak periods.
Amenities and Service Touches
Amenity Kit Contents
The amenity kit features Acqua Di Parma products with basic necessities. Contents include:
- Slippers: Comfortable but basic
- Eye mask: Effective light blocking
- Earplugs: Standard quality
- Toothbrush and toothpaste: Basic supplies
- Moisturizer: Acqua Di Parma branded
- Lip balm: Adequate quality
Additional Comfort Items
Noise-canceling headphones aren’t provided, requiring passengers to bring their own. This feels like a missed opportunity compared to premium carriers offering Bose or Sony alternatives.
Bedding includes the mattress pad, blanket, and pillow combination. Quality exceeds economy standards without reaching luxury levels.
Practical Travel Tips
Seat Selection Strategy
Window seats (A, K) offer better sleeping positions and views. Aisle seats (D, G) provide easier lavatory access but less privacy. Middle seats (E, F) work well for couples traveling together.
Avoid seats:
- Row 1: Galley noise and crew activity
- Row 7: Jetbridge connection can be noisy
- Rows 8-9: Limited overhead air vent control
Packing Recommendations
Business class passengers should pack:
- Noise-canceling headphones: Essential for comfort
- Personal amenities: Supplement the basic amenity kit
- Comfortable clothing: For better sleep quality
- Power adapters: Universal outlets available
- Entertainment: Backup for IFE issues
Meal Service Timing
Dine-on-demand sounds flexible but plan for slow service. Request meals early in the flight to avoid delays. The pre-arrival snack timing works well for Montreal arrival.
Final Verdict and Recommendations
Air Canada business class on the 787-9 London-Montreal route delivers solid value without exceptional experiences. The reverse herringbone configuration provides privacy and direct aisle access, while service standards remain consistently good.
Overall rating: 7/10
Strengths:
- Friendly crew with genuine hospitality
- Reliable aircraft with quiet cabin
- Competitive pricing for the route
- Aeroplan integration benefits
- Decent sleep quality for shorter passengers
Weaknesses:
- Disappointing food quality
- Slow meal service timing
- Dated cabin design and amenities
- Limited storage space
- Constricted sleeping for tall passengers
Best Passenger Profiles
This product works best for:
- Business travelers prioritizing schedule over luxury
- Aeroplan members maximizing point value
- Budget-conscious premium passengers
- Shorter passengers (under 6 feet)
- Star Alliance loyalty program participants
Booking Recommendations
Book this flight when:
- Shoulder season pricing appears
- Aeroplan redemption offers 40%+ value over cash
- Direct routing preferences matter
- Service quality expectations remain moderate
Consider alternatives when:
- Sleep quality is paramount
- Food service expectations are high
- Latest amenities are required
- Ethiopian Airlines A350 routing works
Air Canada’s Signature Class on this route represents solid middle-ground value. It won’t wow you like Singapore’s Suites or Emirates’ First Class, but it gets the job done at a reasonable price point. For Montreal-bound travelers seeking business class comfort without premium pricing, this 787-9 service delivers pretty good value in today’s competitive market.
The transatlantic experience feels professional and comfortable, even if it lacks the innovation of newer products. Sometimes that’s exactly what you need for a pleasant flight across the pond.
conclusion
The Review: Air Canada Business Class 787-9 London-Montreal shows that Air Canada offers a good experience overall. The cabin is quiet, the seat is comfortable, and the service is friendly. Some small things like the narrow footwell or dry main course could be better, but the flight is still enjoyable.
In this Review: Air Canada Business Class 787-9 London-Montreal, you can see why many people choose Air Canada for transatlantic travel. With good IFE, nice bedding, and a relaxing flight, it’s a solid choice for business class passengers flying between Europe and Canada.
FAQs
1. What is featured in the Review: Air Canada Business Class 787‑9 London‑Montreal?
A firsthand look at the cabin layout, seating comfort, meal service, amenities, and crew performance on the London-to-Montreal route.
2. How is the seat in this Business Class?
The reverse herringbone seat offers privacy and direct aisle access, though side sleepers may find the footwell and tray table a bit restrictive.
3. What was the food like on this route?
The menu is stylish and the starters are solid—though the main course (notably the beef brisket) came out dry in this review.
4. Is the onboard service any good?
Yes, the crew was described as attentive and warm—from the purser’s personal greeting to frequent drink top‑ups.
5. Does this flight include Wi‑Fi and entertainment?
Absolutely—high-definition seatback screens, remote controls, and an available Wi‑Fi service complete the in‑flight experience.
