Changes to Dash 8 aircraft designed to increase passenger comfort, modernize fleet<\/p>\n
Porter Airlines is upgrading the cabins in its Dash 8-400 aircraft in a move it says will improve passenger comfort and modernize its fleet.<\/p>\n
All 29 of Porter\u2019s Dash 8s are being retrofitted with redesigned seat and back cushions, updated tray tables, and an integrated personal electronic device holder for hands-free viewing. First-row seats have also been redesigned with new tray tables to provide additional personal space, the airline said.<\/p>\n
Porter said the carbon-fibre and titanium seats actually make the planes lighter, which will lower fuel consumption, and reduce CO2 emissions over the planes\u2019 lives.<\/p>\n
In addition, the cabins are being installed with LED technology and mood lighting, LED reading lights and new carpeting.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur passengers told us that seat comfort is a meaningful part of their experience, even on shorter regional flights. Updating seats, along with other cabin upgrades, will noticeably refresh and modernize the overall environment,\u201d Kent Woodside, Porter\u2019s executive vice-president and chief operating officer, in a news release.<\/p>\n
\u201cPorter is known for providing a globally recognized flying experience, and we\u2019ll continue prioritizing comfort and genuine hospitality as part of our standards. We are pleased to be the first Canadian airline operating with enhanced Dash 8 cabins.\u201d<\/p>\n
Some aircraft have already been upgraded, and the full refresh is expected to be complete this fall.<\/p>\n
In Northern Ontario, Porter operates Dash 8s on routes through Sault Ste. Marie, Thunder Bay, and Timmins.<\/p>\n