Delta Air Lines is currently engaged in discussions with Airbus regarding a substantial order for wide-body aircraft. The escalating demand for long-haul flights has prompted airlines to revitalize their post-Covid networks and replace aging planes.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the negotiations encompass both the A350 and A330neo twin-aisle jets. Although an agreement is not guaranteed at this stage, the potential order could consist of dozens of planes, as the carrier aims to replace over 100 older A330 and Boeing 767 models within its fleet.
The Airbus A330neo, an enhanced version of the A330 wide-body aircraft, was initially introduced in 2015. Powered by cutting-edge Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330neo boasts a remarkable range of up to 8,140 nautical miles and a capacity to carry up to 287 passengers.
According to Bloomberg, although discussions regarding the acquisition of A330neo and A350 jets are not yet in an advanced stage, both Airbus and Boeing’s flagship wide-body aircraft are in high demand. This creates an incentive for both parties to reach an agreement before the upcoming Paris Air Show, the aviation industry’s premier trade expo, which takes place next month.
Delta already operates various Airbus models and has expressed interest in purchasing additional A330s. It currently holds the position of the largest operator of this Airbus type, with 63 planes as of March. Among these, 21 are re-engined A330neo models known for their enhanced fuel economy. The average age of Delta’s A330-200s is 18 years, while its A330-300s average 14 years.
The carrier indicated that this purchase may aim to replace its aging Boeing 767s, which are among the oldest aircraft in its fleet, as the unit costs associated with the Airbus model are significantly better.
At the end of March, Delta possessed 66 767s in its fleet, with the 767-300ERs averaging 27 years of age and the 767-400ERs slightly over 22 years. Moreover, Delta has ordered a total of 33 A330s and A350s as of March 31. It currently operates 28 Airbus A350s.
