Delta orders 10 additional Airbus A330neo aircraft, defers A350 deliveries

Delta Airbus A330-900neo — Photo: © Airbus S.A.S.

Delta Air Lines has announced that it is expanding its order of the Airbus A330-900neo aircraft from 25 to 35 to replace older widebody jets.

Delta will be the first U.S. airline to operate the brand new A330neo. Deliveries are expected to start next year. The A330-900neo will be deployed on medium-haul transatlantic flights as well as routes connecting the U.S. West Coast and Asia.

The next-generation engine technology from Rolls-Royce which powers the A330neo provides compelling operating economics, superior fuel performance and the range and coverage for our transoceanic needs going forward. Expanding our A330 order book not only ensures that Delta’s near-to-medium-term widebody needs are taken care of, but also drives our strategic, measured international growth.Gil West, Delta’s Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

The brand new aircraft will replace the Boeing 767-300ER jets with 20% operating cost savings per seat, compared to the the 767s. Delta plans to retire older Boeing 767-300ERs in the years ahead.

Additionally, Delta and Airbus have agreed to defer 10 previously ordered A350XWBs to 2025-26. The agreement also includes the right to convert these orders to additional A330-900neos.

The A350 has been a great success for our customers and our business. A fleet of 15 of these world-class aircraft is the right current fit for Delta’s industry-leading global network […].Gil West, Delta’s Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

Delta has already taken delivery of eleven A350-900 aircraft and expects to add a further four A350s in 2019 and 2020.