Delta Air Lines strengthens widebody fleet with order for 31 Airbus aircraft

Delta Air Lines has finalized a firm order for 31 Airbus aircraft, marking a significant step in modernizing and expanding its widebody fleet. The order includes 16 Airbus A330-900s and 15 A350-900s, bringing Delta’s total widebody fleet to 55 A330neos and 79 A350s upon delivery. The move underscores the airline’s commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability while bolstering its long-haul capabilities.

Currently, Delta operates over 500 Airbus aircraft, spanning the A220 to the A350-900. The carrier already holds a backlog of approximately 200 Airbus aircraft, which includes the new A350-1000 model.

The A330neo and A350-900s ordered by Delta feature cutting-edge technology designed to reduce costs and environmental impact. The A330neo, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, offers a 25% reduction in fuel burn, CO₂ emissions, and operating costs compared to earlier-generation competitors. With a range of 8,100 nautical miles (15,000 kilometers), it supports nonstop long-haul routes, expanding Delta’s connectivity options.

The A350-900, meanwhile, remains the industry’s most advanced widebody jet, capable of flying 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 kilometers). Its aerodynamic design, lightweight materials, and next-generation engines deliver similar efficiency gains while setting benchmarks for passenger comfort and intercontinental travel.

Both aircraft models ordered can operate using up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), a critical component in the aviation industry’s transition to greener practices. Airbus has pledged to make its aircraft compatible with 100% SAF by 2030, aligning with global efforts to achieve net-zero emissions.

The new order also highlights the growing demand for Airbus’s widebody aircraft. As of December, the A350 family had secured over 1,500 orders from 67 customers, while the A330 family surpassed 1,900 global orders.