Delta Air Lines is adjusting its timeline expectations for the Boeing 737 MAX 10 aircraft, with potential delays pushing deliveries back to as late as 2027. In a candid conversation, Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, shared insights with Bloomberg about the anticipated adjustments to their fleet expansion plans.
Initially, Delta Air Lines had set its sights on welcoming the Boeing 737 MAX 10s into its fleet starting in 2025, with an order of 100 aircraft and an option for 30 more. This ambitious plan aimed to bolster Delta’s offerings with 20 new planes in 2025, another 20 in 2026, and the balance of 60 thereafter. However, unforeseen challenges have prompted a recalibration of these expectations.
During a recent interview, Bastian expressed that while they were hopeful for a 2025 delivery, realistically, the timeline could extend an additional year or two. This shift is largely due to ongoing hurdles faced by Boeing, including a criminal investigation by the United States Department of Justice related to a mid-air incident involving an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 in January and systemic quality-control issues that Boeing is actively addressing.
Boeing’s Challenges and Delta’s Preparedness
Boeing’s challenges have not only impacted Delta but also other carriers like Southwest Airlines and United Airlines, which are preparing for possible delays in receiving their 737 MAX aircraft. Furthermore, Boeing’s discussions to reacquire Spirit AeroSystems are part of its strategic moves to stabilize its operations.
Despite these setbacks, Bastian reassured that Delta Air Lines has negotiated protections within its contract with Boeing to mitigate the impact of these delays. The airline remains “comfortable” with its position, ready to adapt as needed to ensure the continuity and growth of its services.
Boeing, with a substantial backlog of 1,176 orders for the 737 MAX 10, as indicated by the ch-aviation fleets module, faces the task of meeting global demand. United Airlines leads the pack with 275 orders, showcasing the industry’s anticipation for this model. As of March 2024, 20 carriers worldwide are poised to incorporate the 737 MAX 10 into their fleets, pending Boeing’s ability to overcome its current challenges and resume program activities.
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