Air Canada’s new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft took to the skies Monday morning for the first time. Flight AC137 flew Toronto to Calgary and was the first to be operated using the 169-seat, fuel efficient aircraft featuring Air Canada's next generation in-flight entertainment system, spacious overhead storage bin capacity and Boeing's Sky Interior.

Throughout the day it will then fly passengers from Calgary to Montreal, followed by service from Montreal to Vancouver. New onboard features include:

- Premium comfort and ambiance with improved seats and innovative LED mood lighting along the ceiling;

- An upgraded in-flight entertainment system with a sleek, new 15 language user interface. Coming soon, passengers will be able to stream video and audio to their own devices;

- Faster Wi-Fi due to antennas with the highest bandwidth available in the industry, available starting in early 2018;

- Upgraded overhead storage space compartments offer additional space for every single passenger to bring a carry-on bag;

- The latest quiet engine technology for up to 40 percent less noise, meaning more peace and quiet for customers when flying;

- The 737 MAX uses 20 percent less fuel per seat than the original Next-Generation 737.

Air Canada has 61 firm orders for the 737 MAX. They are to be delivered by 2021, with 18 due to enter the fleet by the end of 2018. Its first scheduled flights in North America include service to Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver and Montreal. The aircraft is also scheduled to operate internationally to Keflavik, Dublin and Shannon starting in summer 2018.

"Introducing a new aircraft type to the fleet is always exciting for an airline, but we know customers will be even more thrilled by the Boeing 737 MAX, which is set to become the mainstay of our North American, narrow-body fleet. With this new aircraft we are introducing the next generation of our onboard entertainment system and customers will find ample storage space for carry-on baggage in its generous overhead bins," said Benjamin Smith, President, Passenger Airlines at Air Canada.

"The 737 MAX is also more fuel efficient and quieter than the older, narrow-body aircraft it will replace, benefitting the environment. This increased efficiency will also enable us to compete more effectively and gives the aircraft extended range capabilities so we can launch new city pairings within North America, and routes to select international destinations. Combined with our fleet of Boeing 777 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, the Boeing 737 MAX will ensure Air Canada continues to have one of the most modern fleets among global carriers," said Mr. Smith.