A320

Air Canada is reportedly close to deciding on purchasing up to 60 narrow-body airliners from Airbus or Boeing, as it seeks to revamp its fleet of single-aisle aircraft.

The Canadian flag carrier’s single-aisle fleet is made up of more than 50 Airbus A320 and A321 jets, as well as 45 Embraer 190 aircraft.

Sources familiar with the matter were quoted by Reuters that a board decision could be taken as early as next week.

Air Canada spokesman Peter Fitzpatrick said: "We typically don’t talk about board meetings.

"I can tell you on the record that no decision has been made."

Air Canada CEO Calin Rovinescu previously noted that a decision will be made by the end of this year and would involve more than 100 aeroplanes.

"I can tell you on the record that no decision has been made."

Air Canada is likely to address its fleet renewal programme in two ways, either by selecting Airbus’ revamped A320neo version or eventually switch to Boeing’s 737 MAX.

The medium-haul offerings from both aircraft makers claim to offer better fuel savings and easier maintenance.

The Canadian carrier is expected to immediately place firm order for 30 or more jets with an option for up to another 30, according to the sources.

If all the options were exercised, such a deal would be worth up to $6bn.

Meanwhile, Air Canada could buy smaller category jets at a later date and is likely to compare the domestically built Bombardier CSeries with the Embraer E2 family of jetliners.

In August, the carrier was evaluating plans to acquire Bombardier’s CSeries to replace its ageing fleet of about 100 narrow-body aircraft.

Image: Air Canada fleet comprises more than 50 Airbus A320. Photo: courtesy of Airbus SAS / P.Masclet.

Defence Technology