Flights, baggage allowance, onboard services, and travel information
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Live schedule
Baggage rules
First Air direct flights
Flaut.Travel looks up for airline tickets from First Air not only within airline databases, but through all sorts of travel agencies and resellers. In the following section you can observe First Air ticket offers without stops and transfers
First Air Flight Deals & Sales
First Air launches sales and special offers on their tickets very often. We are keeping a sharp eye on such events to make sure you can always save on their tickets. Keep in mind that those offers usually have a limited timeframe and by the time of search may already be sold.
Canada, Ottawa, 2 Dr Blair Fournier Ln, 419, K1V 1S2
First Air (IATA 7F) was founded in 1946. It operates primarily in Canada’s Arctic, providing extensive passenger and cargo links to remote communities and strong expertise in polar operations—major advantages for travelers and shippers needing reliable northern service. Drawbacks include a limited network outside the North, fares that can be relatively high due to remote logistics, older equipment with modest onboard amenities, and weather-related punctuality challenges. It is a regional carrier rather than a low-cost or premium airline. No official Skytrax rating is listed.
Flying With Pets on First Air
What changed after the merger
First Air (IATA: 7F) merged into Canadian North, and flights that once used the First Air brand now follow Canadian North’s policies. That means pet travel is still possible on many routes across the North, but details can vary by aircraft and community rules. In this guide, you’ll find the practical standards you can expect today, plus where extra confirmation is wise. When planning, always pre‑book your pet—space is limited and must be secured through reservations before you arrive at the airport.
Cabin or hold: how your pet can travel
For small pets, the cabin is often the most comfortable choice. Typically, only cats and dogs are accepted in the cabin, and they must travel in a closed, soft‑sided carrier that fits fully under the seat. The pet needs to remain inside the carrier for the entire flight, calm and odor‑free, and be old enough to travel (generally 8–12 weeks minimum). Carriers count as your carry‑on, and most flights limit the number of in‑cabin pets, so request approval as early as you can.
Larger animals move in the temperature‑controlled hold as checked baggage or via cargo. This requires an IATA‑compliant hard kennel with secure metal fasteners, ventilation on at least three sides, and a leak‑proof floor. Airlines in the North watch weather closely; extreme cold or heat, ramp winds, or storm delays can trigger embargoes for animal safety. Snub‑nosed (brachycephalic) breeds may be restricted from the hold due to elevated risk—ask reservations if a veterinary waiver or cargo alternative is needed.
Carrier size, build, and weight limits
Under‑seat space varies by aircraft type (e.g., 737 vs. ATR). As a rule of thumb, your soft carrier should be flexible, well‑ventilated, and small enough to slide completely under the seat in front of you while letting your pet stand and turn naturally. Expect approximate under‑seat dimensions in the low‑40s by mid‑20s centimeters, but exact measurements can differ by row and plane; confirm your flight’s aircraft and seat‑space limits when you book. The carrier must close securely without pressing your pet’s head or back.
For the hold, the kennel must be sized so your animal can stand ears clear, turn, and lie down with extended paws. Use a rigid, airline‑approved crate with a single metal door, nuts/bolts (no plastic clips), and empty, fixed dishes for water and food. Many carriers apply an in‑cabin weight cap around 10 kg/22 lb (pet plus carrier); checked‑as‑baggage limits commonly top out near 32 kg/70 lb including the kennel, with heavier or oversize kennels routed as cargo. These caps can change by route, season, and aircraft—get a written note on your booking for peace of mind.
Documents, vaccinations, and health
On domestic Canadian flights, a formal veterinary certificate is not usually required, but current rabies vaccination for dogs and cats is strongly recommended, and some municipalities or hamlets may require proof of vaccination or local licensing upon arrival. Your pet should be healthy, clean, and unsedated; most airlines and vets discourage sedation because it can compromise breathing at altitude. Service dogs follow different rules and travel at no charge when properly trained and documented.
For international segments, follow the import/export rules of both countries. That often means a valid rabies certificate, microchip where mandated, and, in some cases, permits or health certificates issued shortly before departure. Puppies and kittens below the minimum vaccination age are typically not accepted internationally. Always check federal and community‑level restrictions well in advance—lead times can be 30 days or more.
Fees and booking specifics
Expect a per‑direction fee for pets in the cabin and a higher fee for checked pets; cargo rates are based on size/weight and route. In practice, in‑cabin fees are often in the CAD 50–100 range, and checked‑pet fees can fall roughly in the CAD 100–200 range domestically, but the airline will quote the exact amount for your itinerary. Fees are usually non‑refundable if you no‑show the pet even when you travel. Book early, add your pet to the PNR, and reconfirm 24–48 hours pre‑departure.
Species and destination restrictions
Airlines typically allow only cats and dogs in the cabin; other small pets (rabbits, birds, reptiles) are generally not accepted in the passenger cabin and may need cargo arrangements, if permitted at all. Females in late pregnancy, unweaned litters, animals with strong odors, or aggressive pets can be refused. Certain northern communities have local bylaws about dogs (including quarantine or proof of vaccination) and may decline arrival of animals with incomplete paperwork. When in doubt, call the local hamlet office in addition to the airline.
Preparing your pet: simple, stress‑saving steps
Two to three weeks out, start crate training so the kennel feels safe rather than new. Line the base with an absorbent pad and a familiar‑smelling cloth, attach contact info to the kennel, and freeze a small water dish that will melt gradually after loading. On the day, feed a light meal 4–6 hours before departure, offer water up to screening, and take an unhurried walk before check‑in. Arrive early; if your pet is checked, staff may close cut‑off times earlier than for regular baggage.
• Quick checklist: vet advice and vaccinations; confirmed pet reservation; airline‑approved carrier/kennel sized to your animal; ID tags and contact label; absorbent pads and spare leash; copies of permits/rabies certificate if required.
At security and on board
For screening, you’ll remove your pet and carry it while the empty carrier goes through X‑ray; a snug harness is safer than a collar in busy checkpoints. Once seated, keep the carrier closed under the seat—cabin crew may ask you not to place it on your lap or in an exit row. For hold‑traveling pets, stay at the gate until staff confirm loading; at arrival, oversized baggage or cargo counters are the usual pickup points. If weather shifts unexpectedly, be flexible: rebooking to a cooler time of day or a different aircraft can be the safest choice.
Before you purchase tickets, it’s wise to call and have a reservations agent note the pet in your record and confirm the exact carrier dimensions and fees for your flight. With a bit of planning—and a properly sized, comfortable carrier—your companion can travel safely and calmly alongside you.
First Air Family Travel Guide
Traveling with little ones on First Air (IATA: 7F) can be smooth when you know what to expect. First Air’s operations are now unified with Canadian North, so you may see information or branding from both; the practical rules for families remain familiar and easy to follow. This guide walks you through age categories, seating choices for infants, baggage for kids, and how strollers, car seats, and onboard comforts work in practice. Policies can change with little notice in northern operations, so always recheck your booking and the airline’s latest guidance 24–48 hours before departure.
Age categories you’ll use when booking
For tickets and onboard rules, an infant is typically a child who is under 2 years old on the day of travel. A child is usually from 2 through 11 years, while anyone 12+ is treated as an adult for fare and seating purposes. If your infant turns 2 during your trip, they’ll need their own seat for the flights after the birthday. Newborns under about a week old may require medical clearance; when in doubt, ask your doctor and the airline before booking. Bring proof of age, such as a birth certificate or government ID, as agents may verify ages at check‑in.
Seats and tickets for infants
You may travel with a lap infant (no separate seat) or purchase a dedicated seat for your baby. On domestic routes within Canada, lap infants generally pay only applicable taxes/fees; if you want a guaranteed seat or prefer to use a restraint, book a child fare for your infant. Only one lap infant is allowed per adult, and you cannot sit with an infant in an exit row. If you buy a seat, the safest option is an approved car seat installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions—ideally in a window seat so it doesn’t block access to the aisle. Crew have the final say on placement to keep aisles and recline paths clear.
If you’d rather not bring a car seat, an approved aviation child harness (such as the CARES device) may be accepted for children who meet the weight range, typically 10–20 kg (22–44 lb); check acceptance with the airline before packing it. Remember that booster seats without an internal harness cannot be used during taxi, takeoff, or landing. Feeding (breast/bottle) or offering a pacifier during climb and descent can ease ear pressure for infants, while older kids can sip water or chew. Keep essential items—diapers, a small blanket, and a change of clothes—within arm’s reach in your personal item.
Baggage allowances for little travelers
First Air Loyalty Guide
Where First Air’s loyalty lives now
First Air (IATA: 7F) merged with Canadian North in 2019, and the combined airline now operates under the Canadian North brand. That means there isn’t a standalone “First Air” loyalty program anymore; instead, your rewards path runs through Canadian North’s own Aurora Rewards and Air Canada’s Aeroplan partnership. This is good news if you fly the northern network the old First Air brand served, because you can choose the currency that best fits your goals. In short: earn and redeem directly with Canadian North via Aurora Rewards for regional trips, or use Aeroplan for broader flexibility across Canada and worldwide. Throughout this guide, I’ll show how each option works and where the best value tends to hide.
Membership tiers and how to qualify
Aurora Rewards is free to join and recognizes frequent Canadian North flyers with elevated status tiers, typically based on your annual flight activity (segments and/or spend) on the Canadian North network. While exact thresholds and tier names can change, higher tiers generally deliver priority services, extra baggage, and occasional fee flexibility—benefits tailored to northern travel realities. If elite recognition on a global scale matters to you, Aeroplan’s five elite tiers—25K, 35K, 50K, 75K, and Super Elite 100K—are earned with Status Qualifying Miles or Segments plus Status Qualifying Dollars each year. Do note that flights operated by Canadian North usually earn redeemable Aeroplan points but may not count toward Aeroplan elite status metrics; always check the current accrual chart before you choose where to credit. Put simply, think of Aurora for recognition on Canadian North itself and Aeroplan for recognition when you’re primarily flying Air Canada and Star Alliance.
Earning points: flights and partners
On Canadian North flights, you can typically credit your travel to either Aurora Rewards or Aeroplan—choose one per ticket—based on which balance you want to grow. Aurora Rewards accrual is tied to your fare and route, and it’s the most direct way to build toward Canadian North flight awards. If you prefer flexibility, add your Aeroplan number instead and earn points you can use not only on Canadian North but also across Air Canada and dozens of partner airlines worldwide. Beyond flying, Aeroplan offers a deep bench of partners—major Canadian credit cards, hotels, car rentals, retail portals, and more—so it’s easy to top up for a big redemption. Track your fare class carefully, as earnings can vary meaningfully by ticket type.
Redeeming rewards: flights, upgrades, and more
First Air’s Fleet, Then and Now
First Air fleet at a glance
First Air (IATA 7F) served Canada’s Arctic until merging with Canadian North in late 2019. Its aircraft and crews now fly under the Canadian North name and 5T code, but much of the hardware and mission profile are unchanged. At the time of consolidation, First Air fielded about 18 aircraft tailored to short, icy runways and the need to move both people and freight. The backbone consisted of rugged Boeing 737 classics on trunk routes and versatile ATR 42 turboprops linking smaller communities. In practical terms, when you board a Canadian North flight in Nunavut today, there’s a fair chance you’re stepping onto an ex‑First Air airplane.
Boeing 737‑200 Combi (with gravel kit) for unpaved strips and mixed loads
Boeing 737‑400 in passenger and combi variants for higher‑demand routes
ATR 42‑300/‑500 in passenger and combi layouts for regional hops
That mix wasn’t accidental; it was optimized for the North’s unique logistics. Jets handled longer legs and heavy cargo pallets, while turboprops provided reliable, low‑fuel‑burn access to short, sometimes gravel runways. The airline could reconfigure a combi in hours to balance mail, perishables, and passengers ahead of the next weather window. This flexible philosophy remains central to the combined Canadian North fleet that inherited 7F’s role across Nunavut, Nunavik, and the Northwest Territories.
Workhorses and cabin/combi layouts
The 737‑200 Combi was the star of the remote‑runway show. Its large forward cargo door and movable bulkhead let crews split the cabin between pallets and seats, and its gravel‑kit deflectors protected the engines when operating from unpaved strips. Seating varied depending on the cargo share, typically offering a few dozen seats when configured as a combi, and more in all‑passenger mode. As communities grew, First Air introduced the 737‑400—still featuring a main‑deck cargo door on combi airframes—for greater payload and range, albeit without gravel capability. For shorter sectors, the ATR 42‑300/‑500 delivered 40‑plus seats or a compact combi setup with impressive short‑field performance and winter reliability.
Age profile: newest vs. oldest
Like many northern carriers, First Air balanced venerable workhorses with newer upgrades. The oldest aircraft in service were the , airframes originally built in the late 1970s and early 1980s, kept current with meticulous maintenance and hush‑kit improvements. Among the newest were from the late 1990s and early 2000s, plus younger from the mid‑to‑late 1990s. After the merger, Canadian North also introduced on key trunk routes, giving the combined fleet a more modern, winglet‑equipped option with better fuel burn. That blend explains why you might see everything from classic two‑engine roars to quieter, newer cabins across the network.
First Air: Meals and Food Options
Where things stand today
First Air (IATA: 7F) merged with Canadian North, and most flights once marketed as First Air now operate under the Canadian North brand. That means onboard food and beverage practices you experience today will generally follow Canadian North’s current policies. Still, the spirit of First Air’s service remains: practical, community‑minded, and focused on getting you fed on long northern sectors. If your ticket shows a Canadian North flight number, treat the details below as a guide and double‑check your specific itinerary. Policies can change with aircraft type, route, and local regulations in the North.
What to expect onboard
First Air historically flew single‑class cabins, and you can expect a similar setup today—no formal business class on scheduled routes. On short hops between northern communities, service is simple and efficient: a complimentary non‑alcoholic drink and a packaged snack. Longer sectors—especially those linking hubs like Ottawa, Yellowknife, and Iqaluit—typically include a light meal such as a sandwich or hearty cold plate, and when catering facilities and aircraft ovens allow, a hot entrée may appear at traditional mealtimes. Multi‑stop flights may stage service after a takeoff or between stops to match crew workload and flight time. As always, availability can vary by route and aircraft, so set expectations accordingly.
If you’re traveling on a charter or a special movement, meal service is arranged to the client’s specification and may be more extensive. Otherwise, expect a consistent economy‑style experience designed for reliability in remote operations. Crews work within the limitations of combi aircraft and small galleys, so service is warm but streamlined. You’ll still get the essentials—fuel for the journey and plenty of hot coffee when it’s cold outside.
Dietary needs and special meals
Special meals are generally possible with advance notice, but the range is narrower than on large global airlines. Common requests—vegetarian, vegan, and gluten‑free—are the easiest to accommodate when you notify reservations at least 48–72 hours before departure. Other diets (for example, low‑lactose or low‑sodium) may be offered where local catering supports them; strictly religious meals (like strict kosher) are often unavailable on remote routes. If you have a severe allergy, inform the airline as early as possible so the crew can take practical precautions, though a completely nut‑ or allergen‑free environment can’t be guaranteed. As a backup, pack compatible snacks and keep any medication within immediate reach.
First Air In‑Flight Entertainment Guide
What to expect today
First Air (IATA: 7F) merged with Canadian North in 2019, and most flights that once carried the First Air brand now operate under Canadian North’s policies. That matters for your screen time: these flights typically use rugged narrow‑body jets and turboprops that prioritize reliability in Arctic conditions over seatback technology. The result is a simple, quiet cabin environment with minimal built‑in entertainment. Think of it as a chance to curate your own journey rather than browse a catalogue of onboard movies.
Types of entertainment onboard
On most aircraft, there are no personal seatback screens and no built‑in library of movies, TV shows, music, or games. Overhead monitors, where fitted, are generally used for safety information rather than programming. The primary “provided” entertainment is reading material in the seat pocket, often featuring stories, photography, and practical travel information about Northern communities. That’s complemented by what may be the best show available: broad Arctic vistas—choose a window seat if you can and let the scenery do the work.
How you’ll access it
Because there’s no streaming portal, everything you watch or play will come from your own phone, tablet, or laptop in airplane mode. Bring your preferred content already downloaded, plus wired or Bluetooth headphones that work without airline adapters. Cabin power can vary by aircraft and is not guaranteed, so a compact power bank is helpful on longer sectors. If you plan to work, expect an offline session and save documents locally for editing.
Variety and quality of content
While the airline doesn’t program movies, the seat‑pocket reading is curated with an eye to the North—expect features on culture, wildlife, and community events rather than generic inflight filler. Editorial quality is typically high, with substantial photography and longer reads that pair well with a quiet cabin. If you like puzzles or travel essays, you’ll sometimes find those too, though availability can vary by issue and route. It’s a slower, more reflective style of entertainment that matches the pace of remote travel.
Cabin and class differences
Whether you’re seated in standard economy or an upgraded cabin on certain routes, the entertainment setup is essentially the same: no personal screens and no exclusive content by class. Premium seats may bring extra comfort and meal enhancements, but they do not usually add different IFE hardware. That consistency keeps expectations straightforward—pack as though you’ll rely on your own device regardless of where you sit. If you’re traveling on a charter or special operation, equipment can differ; treat any extra screens as a pleasant surprise.
Children booked in their own seats receive the same carry‑on and checked baggage allowances as the fare they’re traveling on; size and weight limits match the adult rules. A lap infant does not get a separate cabin bag, but airlines generally allow a diaper bag with reasonable baby supplies in addition to the accompanying adult’s items. In northern regions where weather can disrupt schedules, it’s wise to pack extra diapers, wipes, and snacks to cover unexpected delays. Liquids and gels for infants (formula, milk, baby food) are exempt from the usual 100 ml limit in Canada—declare them at security for screening.
Most families can check common infant equipment free of charge: one collapsible stroller and one car seat. You can check these at the counter or receive a gate‑check tag and hand them over at boarding; agents may require large, non‑collapsible strollers to go as regular checked baggage. Expect to retrieve gate‑checked items either at the aircraft door or the baggage belt, depending on the station’s setup.
Strollers, car seats, and bassinets
Gate‑checking a stroller keeps your hands free in the terminal and avoids extra bulk in the cabin. Label it clearly, fold it before you reach the aircraft door, and consider a simple protective bag if you have delicate parts or accessories. For connections in smaller northern airports, confirm with staff where gate‑checked items will be returned so you’re not surprised on arrival.
For car seats, look for a label stating it’s approved for use in aircraft by Transport Canada or the FAA. Install the seat in the direction permitted for your child’s size, and use the aircraft seat belt as directed—crew can help you identify the right row but cannot install it for you. Car seats and harness devices are never allowed in exit rows and are usually placed at the window. As First Air’s network uses narrow‑body jets and turboprops, onboard bassinets are not provided; if sleep is a priority, a dedicated seat with a car seat is the most restful option.
Meals, entertainment, and boarding
Families are typically invited to pre‑board, giving you a few extra minutes to settle car seats, stash gear, and brief your child. If seating choice matters—near the window for a car‑seat installation or near the lavatory for quick changes—select seats early, as small cabins fill quickly. Overhead space can be limited on regional aircraft; pack your baby’s essentials in a soft, compact bag that fits under the seat.
Catering varies by route and flight length, so expect light snacks and beverages rather than full meals. Pack familiar snacks your child will eat, plus a refillable bottle; crew can usually provide hot water to warm a bottle but cannot handle or heat personal food containers. For entertainment, assume there are no seatback screens—download shows, audiobooks, and games before you leave, and bring child‑safe headphones. Power banks must travel in carry‑on only; choose airline‑compliant capacities and keep them accessible but secure.
Practical tips that make a big difference
Dress kids in layers that suit both the airplane cabin and potentially chilly ramps in the North, and keep a spare outfit for everyone—including you. Aim for earlier flights when possible to improve recovery options if weather intervenes, and leave buffer time for connections. Teach older children the “ears and seatbelt” routine before boarding so safety instructions feel familiar, not scary. For paperwork, bring what you need and keep it together:
Child’s ID and proof of age; if only one parent travels, a consent letter is recommended for domestic travel and strongly advised if any segment crosses borders.
Finally, keep expectations realistic and your hands free: a compact baby carrier at the gate, a small pouch for tickets and passports, and a simple routine for boarding and settling in. With a bit of planning—and a few strategic comforts—your family’s First Air journey can feel calm, safe, and genuinely enjoyable. If anything in your itinerary looks unclear, contact the airline or your agent for the latest, route‑specific advice.
Aurora Rewards shines for straightforward flight redemptions on Canadian North, letting you turn frequent regional trips into future seats on the same network; taxes and fees still apply, and peak dates can be competitive. Non‑flight options may appear from time to time (such as vouchers or special promotions), but the most reliable value is usually seats on core routes. Aeroplan gives you two powerful avenues: redeem on Canadian North for hard‑to‑reach northern communities, or tap into Star Alliance and other partners for domestic and long‑haul itineraries. Aeroplan uses a transparent, distance‑ and zone‑based chart for partner awards and generally avoids carrier surcharges, which helps keep out‑of‑pocket costs reasonable. Keep in mind that Aeroplan eUpgrades and many elite perks apply on Air Canada flights, not on Canadian North, so treat upgrades on 7F’s former routes as a separate question from your Aeroplan strategy.
Benefits by tier: what to expect
At elevated Aurora Rewards tiers, you can expect priority check‑in and boarding, an enhanced baggage allowance, and sometimes added flexibility or recognition at key northern stations—useful when weather and logistics make timing unpredictable. Lounge access, where offered, is typically via contracted facilities and can vary by airport and schedule, so it’s wise to confirm availability before you travel. On the Aeroplan side, benefits scale quickly: 35K adds Maple Leaf Lounge access for most Air Canada‑operated North America itineraries, while 50K grants Star Alliance Gold with global lounge access and broader priority services. Higher tiers (75K and Super Elite) deepen the perks with more generous priority treatment and fee relief, though these advantages apply primarily when flying Air Canada and Star Alliance partners. For flights operated solely by Canadian North, assume Aeroplan elite perks are limited unless explicitly stated, and lean on your Aurora standing for on‑the‑ground help.
Tips to maximize value
Decide where to credit each trip: Aurora for consistent Canadian North awards, Aeroplan for multi‑carrier trips or international plans.
Use Aeroplan’s partner ecosystem—credit cards, hotel and car partnerships, and Family Sharing—to grow balances faster for scarce northern awards.
Search early and be flexible on dates; capacity in the North is limited and popular flights can disappear quickly for both cash and awards.
Watch fare classes before booking; a small price difference can mean a big change in how many points you earn.
Keep boarding passes and receipts to file missing‑points claims promptly with the program you chose.
Bottom line
If you’re looking for a “First Air” loyalty program, the path now runs through Canadian North’s Aurora Rewards and Aeroplan. Use Aurora to stay close to the routes you actually fly, and Aeroplan when you want the reach of Star Alliance and a rich partner network. Combining both—crediting strategically per trip—lets you build recognition where it matters while keeping your options open for that bigger redemption later. Policies do evolve, especially after mergers, so it’s worth double‑checking accrual and benefit rules on Canadian North and Aeroplan before each booking. With a little planning, you’ll squeeze genuine, repeatable value out of the network First Air helped build in Canada’s North.
737‑200s
ATR 42‑500s
737‑400s
737‑700s
Where the fleet is headed
Before joining forces, First Air had already started retiring its 737‑200s and leaning more on 737‑400 combis and newer ATRs. Post‑merger, the strategy has been consolidation: standardize around capable ATR 42/72 turboprops for short fields and 737 jets for longer sectors, while gradually phasing out older classics. The combined airline has sourced used 737‑700s rather than placing big factory‑new orders, a pragmatic approach that fits northern demand and infrastructure. Expect incremental refreshes—additional NG‑series jets and updated turboprops—rather than a sudden, wholesale swap. For travelers, the practical outcome is better reliability and payload flexibility, especially on the Ottawa–Iqaluit corridor and other lifeline routes.
Flying greener in the Arctic
Sustainability in the Far North is as much about smart operations as shiny new airplanes. Turboprops like the ATR 42 burn significantly less fuel on short hops than jets, and the combi concept avoids extra ferry flights by moving freight and passengers together. The combined fleet has leaned into practical steps—engine‑wash programs, lighter interiors, and careful cargo planning—to trim emissions where it counts. Newer 737‑700s with blended winglets offer meaningful fuel savings on longer sectors, and the airline has signaled readiness to uplift SAF when it becomes reliably available at southern hubs. Just as important, backhaul initiatives use spare cargo space to remove waste and recyclables from remote communities, turning otherwise empty legs into a positive.
Nuggets for avgeeks
A few details make First Air memorable to aviation fans. It was among the last North American operators of passenger‑carrying 737‑200s, whose gravel kit let them serve runways few modern jets can touch. The airline’s main‑deck cargo doors on 737 combis meant you could see snowmobiles, HVAC units, or even freezers loaded right beside passenger seating—safely separated by a movable bulkhead. Many ATRs were set up for quick‑change work, swapping seats and cargo in a single shift as weather windows opened and closed. And although tickets now show Canadian North’s 5T code, the spirit—and quite a few airframes—of 7F are still carrying the North every day.
Quality and variety of food
Meals lean toward simple, hearty comfort foods that travel well and actually satisfy at altitude. Expect familiar flavors and straightforward presentations rather than elaborate plating—think sandwiches, stews, rice or pasta bakes, and fresh sides when logistics permit. Given the supply chain into the Arctic, variety can be more limited than on southern carriers, but portions are sensible and beverages are generously poured. The focus is on reliability, safe handling, and serving you something warm or substantial on longer sectors. It’s a no‑nonsense approach that prioritizes practicality without forgetting the small touches, like hot drinks offered promptly after takeoff.
Beverages and alcohol policy
Non‑alcoholic drinks—water, juices, soft drinks, and plenty of coffee and tea—are complimentary and typically offered at least once on shorter legs, with additional passes when time allows. Hydration matters in dry northern cabins, so don’t hesitate to ask for water refills. Alcohol service is more nuanced: availability may be limited or not offered at all on certain routes due to licensing and community regulations in Northern Canada. On routes where alcohol is allowed, selection is modest (usually beer and wine), quantities are controlled, and government ID is required. Consuming your own alcohol onboard is not permitted, and service may pause during turbulence or short stages. When in doubt, check the specifics for your flight and respect the rules around “dry” or restricted communities.
Partnerships and sourcing
Rather than splashy celebrity‑chef programs, First Air’s legacy—and Canadian North today—leans on regional caterers near operational bases to keep food fresh and logistics dependable. You may notice items sourced from local providers at major gateways, with menus that favor straightforward, well‑liked staples. That approach keeps costs and complexity in check while still delivering a satisfying meal in challenging operating environments. While there isn’t a widely publicized chef partnership, there is an emphasis on practicality and consistency, which most travelers appreciate on long, weather‑sensitive routes. Expect honest, comforting food over culinary theater.
Tips for a smoother meal experience
On northern flights, a little planning goes a long way, especially if you have dietary needs or tight connections. Service windows can be brief on multi‑stop itineraries, and local restrictions sometimes shape what’s available onboard. Think of the meal as welcome fuel rather than the centerpiece of the journey, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised when a hot option appears. These quick pointers can help you make the most of what’s served:
Pre‑order special meals 48–72 hours ahead; reconfirm at check‑in.
Pack a small stash of personal snacks, especially for strict diets or delays.
Bring an empty water bottle to top up after security and during service.
Keep medications and allergy action plans in your personal item, not checked bags.
Expect limited alcohol availability; don’t plan your hydration around it.
On multi‑stop flights, wait to open hot items until the seatbelt sign is off and the crew signals—service can pause for short descents.
Wi‑Fi and streaming availability
Wi‑Fi is not currently offered
on the regular scheduled fleet, and there’s no airline app or portal for onboard streaming. Connectivity options in Canada’s Far North are improving, but for now you should plan for a fully offline experience. If you happen to board a substituted aircraft with connectivity, consider it an exception rather than the rule. Until fleetwide Wi‑Fi arrives, downloaded entertainment is your best strategy.
Partnerships and sources
There are no headline partnerships with major streaming studios or music services onboard. Instead, the airline leans on editorial partnerships that highlight Northern voices and photography in the inflight reading materials. This approach keeps the content rooted in place, even if it’s not delivered on a screen. It’s a different kind of curation—less Hollywood, more Arctic storytelling.
Tips to make the most of it
Download shows, playlists, podcasts, and e‑books before you leave; most apps allow offline mode.
Pack comfortable headphones and a small power bank; cabin power isn’t guaranteed.
Lower your screen brightness and enable battery‑saver to stretch device life.
Bring a lightweight “analog” option (crossword book, journal, travel guide) as a backup.
If traveling with kids, pre‑load a few games that don’t require internet and bring a familiar headset.
Choose a window seat for daylight legs—views over tundra, sea ice, and fjords are spectacular.
Keep devices on airplane mode; some remote routes have no cellular service even on the ground.
Bottom line
Expect a calm, largely offline flight without seatback screens or Wi‑Fi, and plan to entertain yourself with what you bring. With a little preparation—downloads, headphones, and a power plan—you’ll be set, and you might even rediscover the pleasure of uninterrupted reading and sky‑watching. For the latest specifics on your aircraft, check your pre‑departure email or ask at the gate; crews are happy to set expectations before you board.
