Delta Air Lines, one of the leading airlines in the US, is reportedly on the verge of striking an order with Airbus for additional widebody aircraft. As per sources first cited by Reuters, the airline is currently evaluating various models, with the potential order encompassing “dozens” of widebody jets. This major acquisition is expected to include the long-range A350-1000, marking a significant expansion in Delta’s fleet.
I am personally abuzz with anticipation as Delta Air Lines gears up for a potentially historic order. Speculation suggests that the deal, contingent on the final stages of negotiation and barring unforeseen complications, could be announced as early as January 12, 2024. This date coincides with Delta’s fourth quarter (Q4) earnings report, a momentous occasion for investors and market watchers. While Airbus has refrained from commenting on these speculations, Delta maintains its stance of not commenting on industry rumors.
Delta’s Fleet Composition and History with Airbus
Delta has long been a significant player in the aviation industry, boasting a diverse fleet composed of aircraft from the two major manufacturers, Airbus and Boeing. Currently, Delta’s fleet includes 458 Airbus aircraft, slightly outnumbered by Boeing’s 520. However, Delta’s recent purchasing trends have leaned towards Airbus, evidenced by the airline’s significant Airbus widebody presence. Delta operates a total of 69 Airbus A330s, including various models like the A330-200s, A330-300s, and the A330-900neos, with more on order. Additionally, Delta has 28 A350-900s, with six more awaiting delivery.
Should Delta proceed with acquiring the A350-1000, it would be a landmark decision for the airline. This move would not only mark Delta’s first venture into the largest type in Airbus’s current product line but also position Delta as the first operator of the A350-1000 in the United States.
The anticipated fleet expansion comes at a crucial time as Delta aims to strengthen its network in the Asia-Pacific region. This area has seen slower travel demand recovery post-pandemic compared to the US and Europe. However, with rising operational costs, US carriers like Delta are eyeing Asia-Pacific as a potential high-margin revenue source. Current estimates indicate a more than 70% increase in seating capacity on flights to this region compared to 2023, showcasing the strategic importance of this market.
This move by Delta reflects a broader trend among airlines to modernize fleets and accommodate increasing passenger demand. With filled order books and extended lead times from manufacturers, airlines are swiftly moving to secure new aircraft, underscoring the urgency of renewing and expanding their fleets to meet market needs.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
