A few days ago I was talking about the concept of a "game changer."

Well, the news this week is really re-defining the meaning of "game changer" in our industry. Just for starters, Air Canada changed the game big-time with a decision to modernize its fleet with Boeing 777s and 787s. There's other big news breaking this week, but today I want to focus on Air Canada.

Air Canada's new fleet could include
up to 60 Boeing 787 Dreamliners
and up to 36 Boeing 777s.

And what I find significant about the Air Canada announcement is their choice of the newest, most current members of the 777 and 787 families, including the 777-200LR, 777-300ER and the 777 Freighter. Air Canada's plans also include 787-8s, as well as becoming the first airline to announce plans for the 787-9.

Air Canada describes this week's announcement as a decision to "renew and modernize" its fleet. Think about that. Renew and modernize. No question about it, they're building the newest, most modern and efficient twin-engine, long haul fleet.

In Air Canada's words, these new airplanes represent "overwhelmingly attractive economics" as they replace all of the airline's older twin-aisles. Air Canada estimates that the fuel burn and maintenance cost savings alone on the 787 will be approximately 30%.

But what's really fascinating is the way Air Canada plans to make use of the new 777s and 787s to grow its current long-range non-stop routes, particularly to China and Latin America.

Air Canada says it's planning to fly 777-300ERs between Vancouver and Tokyo. Other new airplanes will allow Air Canada to implement its recently announced expansion to China markets. They're also planning to add daily non-stop service from Toronto to Shanghai, increase flights between Toronto and Beijing, and add daily Vancouver to Guangzhou service. Air Canada also plans to expand cargo service to China.

This is the essence of what we've been saying for years about long-range twin-engines flying point to point. The 787 and 777 work perfectly together, allowing Air Canada to respond to seasonal demand with two aircraft models that can fly with the same speed, range, and passenger comfort levels, while offering different seating and cargo capacities to match demand on its routes.

Air Canada's strategy has been about "point to point" for a long time. And by continuing to meet the passenger's desire for more non-stop service, Air Canada is locking in its reputation as one of the world's premier long-haul carriers for many more years to come.

With apologies to the National Anthem, it just makes you want to sing: "O Air Canada! With glowing hearts we see thee rise."