Widebody to Join Fleet as First -1000 Variant

Delta Air Lines placed an order for 20 A350-1000 aircraft, bolstering their widebody fleet with an all-new airframe.

The company currently operates more than 450 Airbus aircraft from a range of families, including the A220 to the previous-gen A350-900. Before placing their most recent order, Delta held orders for 200 more aircraft of various models. The A350 has been a fave for carriers abroad, offering 9,700 nautical miles of range in the 300 to 400-seat category. Add in its 25% reduction in fuel burn, and similarly Airbus-promised cuts in operational costs and CO2 emissions, and it makes some sense.

“We are thankful for Delta’s continued confidence in Airbus’ solutions to meet its fleet needs,” said Christian Scherer, Chief Executive Officer of the Commercial Aircraft business, Airbus. “Delta was the first U.S. airline to operate the A350-900, and is doing so with great success. Delta now welcomes the A350-1000, which will open even more opportunities for the airline and its customers. We are proud that our aircraft serve the entirety of Delta’s impressive global network as this stellar airline takes fleet efficiency to the next level.”

“The A350-1000 will be the largest, most capable aircraft in Delta’s fleet and is an important step forward for our international expansion,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s chief executive officer. “The aircraft complements our fleet and offers an elevated customer experience, with more premium seats and best-in-class amenities, as well as expanded cargo capabilities.”

FMI: www.airbus.com