Air Canada's Boeing 787-8 connects Canada nonstop with Asia and South America in record distances

The top ten longest Air Canada 787-8 flights are all over 4,200 nautical miles (7,800 km) and typically last between ten and thirteen hours. These include connections from Toronto or Vancouver to Asian hubs like Osaka, Seoul, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing (seasonal), as well as South American destinations such as São Paulo and Santiago.

"Before the 787‑8 joined the fleet, nonstop options from Canada to many of these destinations were limited or nonexistent," according to Air Canada.

The Boeing 787-8 offers a range of about 7,355 nautical miles (13,620 km). Its composite structure reduces weight while advanced engines improve fuel efficiency by up to 25% compared with older jets. This makes it suitable for long sectors where larger aircraft would not be economical due to lower demand.

"With a range of roughly 7,355 nautical miles (13,620 km), the 787-8 can comfortably handle ultra-long-haul sectors such as Toronto–Osaka or Vancouver–Hong Kong without refueling stops," Air Canada states.

Operating nonstop flights exceeding twelve hours requires careful planning. Crew members rotate shifts using onboard rest facilities; flight operations must account for fuel requirements amid variable weather conditions; and contingency plans are prepared for technical issues during extended journeys.

"For example, on the Toronto–Osaka route, Air Canada typically rosters four pilots to share the workload... Careful planning ensures both safety and efficiency," according to Air Canada.

Passenger comfort is also addressed through cabin features unique to the Dreamliner: larger dimmable windows allow more natural light; a lower cabin altitude of approximately 6,000 feet helps reduce fatigue; higher humidity levels minimize dehydration; quieter engines contribute to a calmer atmosphere; and each seat has access to personal entertainment systems with power outlets.

"Spending more than 13 hours in the air might sound exhausting, but Air Canada’s 787-8 Dreamliner is purpose-built to make the journey as comfortable and restorative as possible," says Air Canada.

Looking ahead beyond next year’s schedule changes are expected when new widebody aircraft join Air Canada's fleet in 2026. Some existing Dreamliners may shift toward secondary markets while larger models take over higher-demand routes. The airline anticipates this expansion will further increase direct international connectivity for Canadian travelers while enhancing onboard amenities across its modernized fleet.