ATLANTA (WXIA) – Delta Air Lines announced Thursday that they have selected two Airbus models – the A350-900 and the A33-900neo to replace older Boeing 747 and 767 aircraft beginning in 2017 and 2019.
The order for 25 of the A350-900 and 25 of the A330-900neo aircraft ties into Delta's focus on "prudent, cost-effective investments" in the air carrier's air fleet.
"Delta always approaches fleet decisions with a balance of economic efficiency, customer experience enhancements, network integration and total cost of ownership," said Nat Pieper, Delta's Vice President – Fleet Strategy and Transactions in a release Thursday. "The A350 and A330neo support our long-haul, transoceanic strategy and join a mix of Boeing and Airbus aircraft that provide exceptional flexibility for Delta's global network as well as strong cash-on-cash returns for our shareholders."
The long-range A350-900 aircraft will help the Atlanta-based carrier's Pacific operations, working primarily on long-range routes between the US an Asia. According to Delta's release, the new aircraft will generate a 20 percent improvement in operating cost over the existing Boeing 747-400 aircraft they will be replacing. Delta plans to take delivery of the new jets beginning in the second quarter of 2017.
The widebodied A330neo aircraft will be used on medium-range trans-Atlantic routes and some routes between the West Coast and Asia. The new wide bodies are expected to bring a 20 percent improvement in operating cost over the existing Boeing 767-300ER jets. Delta will begin taking delivery of the new A330neo jets in 2019.
