Air Canada Business Class Review (YYZ to ICN, AC61 – Boeing 787-9)
On February 25, 2026, I flew Air Canada AC61 from Toronto (YYZ) to Seoul (ICN) in Business Class on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
The scheduled flight time was 15 hours and 15 minutes. Due to delays, I was onboard for nearly 18 hours. Yet I stepped off the aircraft without lower back pain, knee stiffness, or extreme fatigue — something I rarely say after a long-haul flight.
Here’s the full experience.
Flight Details
Flight: Air Canada AC61 (Toronto YYZ → Seoul ICN)
Aircraft: Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
Seat: 4D (Center Section)
Date Flown: February 25, 2026
Scheduled Time: 15h 15m
Actual Time Onboard: Nearly 18h
This review covers the full Air Canada Signature Class experience from check-in to arrival on the YYZ–ICN route.
✈️ Planning this trip? [Check current Air Canada Business Class fares on Trip.com]
Before Boarding
Dedicated Check-in Counter
Air Canada operates out of Terminal 1 at Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Business Class passengers have access to a dedicated check-in counter. While there were only a few staff members working at the time, the line was still minimal compared to Economy Class.
Even so, during peak periods, increasing staffing at the Business Class counter would likely improve the experience further.
Maple Leaf Lounge or Signature Lounge
At YYZ Terminal 1, international flights depart from the E Gates.
If you proceed directly from the dedicated Business Class check-in counter, you’ll find yourself closer to the D Gates, requiring a bit of a walk to reach the E Gates. It’s more convenient to head straight toward the international departures security area.
Business Class passengers have access to either:
- Maple Leaf Lounge
- Signature Lounge
The photos above are from the Maple Leaf Lounge, where you can enjoy light snacks, beverages, and even shower facilities before your long-haul flight.
Boarding – Zone 1 Priority
Business Class boards in Zone 1.
That means:
- No crowded gate line
- Calm, organized cabin entry
It’s a small but meaningful advantage before a 15-hour flight.
Cabin & Seat – Boeing 787-9 Reverse Herringbone
The 787-9 Business Class layout is 1-2-1 reverse herringbone, providing direct aisle access for every seat.
I was seated in 4D — a center seat.
Center seats are particularly suitable for couples or families traveling together. Sitting side by side in the center section creates a more shared atmosphere during meals and throughout the flight. When traveling solo, the center seats still provide adequate privacy, but window seats offer slightly more isolation due to their angled position toward the window. In short, window seats are ideal for maximum privacy, while center seats work well for those who prefer a more connected travel experience.
Once seated, bedding is not pre-set. You’ll need to arrange the mattress pad and blanket yourself.
Seat Details
There is a storage space under the seat where you can tuck your shoes away. Black Air Canada slippers are provided separately for in-flight comfort.
The seat controls are detailed and intuitive. You can adjust the seat to various lounging positions or convert it into a fully flat 180-degree bed.
Interestingly, when fully flat, the seat feels slightly angled rather than perfectly parallel to the aircraft’s direction — which is normal for reverse herringbone layouts. Personally, I prefer sleeping with the backrest slightly elevated rather than completely flat.
Next to the seat is a covered storage compartment that contains the screen remote control. On the side panel, you’ll find:
- USB-A charging port
- Noise-canceling headset jack
- 110V power outlet
The noise-canceling headset is provided for use during the flight but cannot be taken off the aircraft. The amenity kit, however, is yours to keep.
Amenity Kit
The amenities are presented in an Acqua di Parma pouch.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Dental kit
- Foam earplugs
- Glasses cleaning cloth
- Eye mask
- Socks
- Lip balm and hand cream (Acqua di Parma)
The scent is subtle and elegant.
Personally, I preferred the older black eye mask and socks. The current red versions feel a bit festive — almost seasonal — but that’s a minor stylistic preference.
Signature Class Lavatories
Dedicated lavatories for Business Class passengers are located at both the front and rear of the cabin.
While the physical layout is similar to Economy lavatories, they are noticeably less crowded and better maintained throughout the flight. Hand cream is also provided, adding a small premium touch.
Drink & Dining
Welcome Drink & Pre-Departure
Shortly after settling in, I was offered:
- Champagne
- Sparkling water
I chose champagne.
It’s a small gesture, but it clearly signals that you’re in a different travel tier.
Dinner Service – Strong Overall Execution
Dinner service began shortly after takeoff.
I started with Port wine.
For the appetizer, Beef Carpaccio was served. For the main course, I chose the Braised Boneless Lamb Shank from three available options.
The red wine initially felt slightly underwhelming on its own — perhaps influenced by the earlier Port wine — but once paired with the lamb, the combination was excellent. Air Canada Business Class dining was genuinely strong: well-presented, well-seasoned, and satisfying.
I initially wanted cheesecake for dessert, but it wasn’t available. The lemon pie turned out to be a solid alternative.
Mid-Flight Snack – Expectations vs Reality
Midway through the flight, I ordered:
- Chicken skewers
- Cup noodles
Given that this was the YYZ–ICN route, I subconsciously expected something distinctly Korean.
The flavors weren’t particularly Korean-style — slightly rich and heavier than expected. It made me crave kimchi.
I paired the snack with a beer and later finished with a glass of Crown Royal — a small Canadian touch before landing in Korea.
Breakfast Before Landing
About two hours before landing, breakfast service began.
I chose the omelet.
Warm, simple, and reliable — exactly what you want before a long-haul arrival.
In-Flight Entertainment
The Business Class screen is approximately 18 inches.
Although touchscreen-enabled, it’s slightly far to reach comfortably, so the dedicated remote controller is useful.
The movie selection is extensive, though there are fewer Korean audio and subtitle options compared to Korean Air. English subtitles are available for most content.
Watching on a large screen with noise-canceling headphones from a spacious seat feels distinctly different from Economy.
Sleep Experience – The True Value
After dinner and a movie, I converted the seat into a fully flat bed.
When I woke up, there were still 7 hours remaining. That’s usually when ultra-long-haul flights become uncomfortable.
But this time:
- No lower back pain
- No knee pressure
- No constant repositioning
I was able to sleep for roughly 6–7 hours in total — including a solid uninterrupted stretch.
The cabin remained quiet, the temperature comfortable, and the mattress pad added just enough cushioning to prevent pressure points.
On flights exceeding 15 hours, this level of rest dramatically changes how you feel upon arrival.
Arrival at Incheon (ICN)
Despite nearly 18 hours onboard, I arrived surprisingly refreshed.
Immigration and baggage claim were efficient.
Within 20 minutes — even with checked luggage — I was out of the terminal and ready to head toward Seoul.
If you’re heading into Seoul after landing, you can choose between private transfers, airport limousine buses, or the AREX train.
Conclusion
After nearly 18 hours onboard from Toronto to Seoul, I arrived feeling refreshed rather than wrecked. No back pain, no stiffness — just ready to move.
On ultra-long-haul routes, a lie-flat bed transforms Business Class from a luxury into a meaningful advantage. The difference in post-flight recovery between Premium Economy and Business can be significant.
If arriving in Seoul ready to hit the ground running matters to you, Business Class is a compelling choice on this route.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are common questions travelers ask before booking Air Canada Business Class.
The scheduled flight time is approximately 15 hours and 15 minutes, though delays may extend total onboard time.
On ultra long-haul routes such as YYZ to ICN, the lie-flat seat and quieter cabin significantly reduce fatigue compared to Economy or Premium Economy.
Text-based messaging is complimentary. Air Canada has announced plans to gradually expand complimentary Wi-Fi for Aeroplan members, so it’s best to check the official website for the latest details.
Yes. On long-haul aircraft like the Boeing 787-9, Air Canada Signature Class seats convert into fully flat beds with direct aisle access.
Yes. When two center seats are booked together, sitting side by side in the middle section allows for easier conversation compared to window seats, making it a practical option for couples traveling together.
Related Reviews
If you’re planning a similar Toronto–Seoul trip, these guides may also help:
