Delta Air Lines‘ Strategic Aircraft Choices
Delta Air Lines, one of the world’s largest carriers, decided in January 2024 to expand its widebody fleet by ordering the Airbus A350-1000. This commitment reinforces Delta’s strategy to maintain an all-Airbus widebody fleet. However, speculation suggests this could change, with rumors indicating a possible order for the Boeing 787-10 by the end of this year or in early 2026.
Delta’s Extensive Fleet Operations
Headquartered in Atlanta, Delta operates nearly 1,000 aircraft, including those from its merger with Northwest Airlines. The fleet is diverse, with the largest number of Airbus A220, Boeing 717, 757, 767, and A330 aircraft. For long-distance travel, the airline currently relies on its Airbus A330, A350, and Boeing 767 models. Changes like introducing the Boeing 787 could alter this dynamic. The airline plans to retire its iconic Boeing 767s by the decade’s end as part of its fleet renewal strategy.
Considering the Boeing 787-10
Market rumors fueled by industry insiders suggest Delta might add the Boeing 787, specifically the 787-10, to its fleet. These speculations are based on Delta’s current use of ultra-long-range aircraft like the Airbus A350-900 and A330-900neo. The potential acquisition would diversify Delta’s fleet beyond its current Airbus focus. A look at Delta’s widebody aircraft is shown below:
| Aircraft | Number In Fleet |
|---|---|
| Airbus A330-200 | 11 |
| Airbus A330-300 | 31 |
| Airbus A330-900neo | 37 |
| Airbus A350-900 | 38 |
| Boeing 767-300ER | 39 |
| Boeing 767-400ER | 21 |
Analyzing Aircraft Efficiency and Route Optimization
Since the 2010s, Delta has favored Airbus widebodies, driven by fleet commonality and improved fuel efficiency. The Airbus A330-300 and A330-900neo were chosen for their 15-25% greater fuel efficiency over older Boeing models, aligning with sustainability objectives. The Boeing 787 previously fell short on range and size needs relative to Delta’s requirements.
Potential Boeing Introduction and Its Implications
The Boeing 787-10, with lesser range but higher capacity, is seen as ideal for Delta’s medium-haul, high-volume routes, particularly from hubs like New York JFK and Atlanta to major European cities. It allows diversification from Airbus, aiding in mitigating potential supply delays. A summary of the 787’s capabilities is listed below:
| Aircraft | Range | Engines |
|---|---|---|
| Boeing 787-8 | 7,305 nautical miles (13,530 km) | GEnx-1B / Trent 1000 |
| Boeing 787-9 | 7,565 nautical miles (14,010 km) | GEnx-1B / Trent 1000 |
| Boeing 787-10 | 6,330 nautical miles (11,730 km) | GEnx-1B / Trent 1000 |
Considerations for Boeing 787 Integration
Historically, Delta canceled an order for the Boeing 787-8 inherited from Northwest Airlines, preferring Airbus models. Commonality reduces costs, but diversification mitigates risks from manufacturer-specific issues. Both the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 compete as advanced ultra-long-range aircraft, highlighting Delta’s potential strategic pivot.
Delta’s Future Fleet Directions
Delta’s decision, if realized, would align with other North American carriers operating the Dreamliner, such as Aeromexico, Air Canada, and United Airlines among others. While Delta initially led in operating the A350, its new direction could incorporate the Boeing 787 to enhance competitiveness and operational efficiency.
