Delta Air Lines has placed a firm order for 31 new widebody aircraft with Airbus, including 16 A330-900neos and 15 A350-900s. Deliveries are set to begin in 2029.
Expanding the long-haul fleet
Once delivered, the airline’s widebody fleet will consist of 55 A330neos and 79 A350s. Delta is no stranger to either type of aircraft. At the moment, the airline operates 39 A330-900neos, with deliveries spanning between 2019 and 2025, and 40 A350-900s, which joined the fleet back in 2015. Delta has four unfilled orders for the A350-900 and 20 for the larger A350-1000, with the first delivery expected as soon as March 2026. The airline previously placed a major order of 60 787 Dreamliners.
The Atlanta-based carrier said the order falls within Delta’s “previously announced capital expenditure and capacity targets.”
Delta further noted that they have already secured long-term financing for a substantial portion of the purchase. CEO Ed Bastian stated the additions of the new aircraft will aid the airline in preparing to expand upon their “premium offerings” and long-haul markets.
Aircraft features and sustainability
The A330neo and A350-900 are powered by the latest generation Rolls-Royce engines and are designed to withstand the long distances of international travel. Notably, the A330neo can fly up to 8,100 nautical miles without stopping, while the A350-900 is capable of up to a substantial 9,700 nautical miles. Both aircraft use lightweight materials and advanced aerodynamics to reduce fuel burn, operating costs and carbon emissions by roughly 25% compared to earlier-generation competitor aircraft.
Additionally, both aircraft feature Airbus’ Airspace cabin, providing modern in-flight products for passenger comfort. The features are capable of operating on up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel, with Airbus aiming for full SAF capability by 2030. Overall, Delta currently operates more than 500 Airbus aircraft, from the A220 to the A350-900. The airline maintains a backlog of around 200 aircraft, including the A350-1000.
Do you expect Delta’s fleet expansion to change long-haul travel? Let us know in the comments.
