In early 2024, Delta Air Lines placed an order for the Airbus A350-1000, after years of rumors. While there has been a delay in these deliveries, we’re potentially just over a year from the first of these planes being delivered. In light of all the developments that we’ve seen since then (both at Delta and at competitors), I’d like to take an updated look at what we can expect.
In this post:
Delta has 20 Airbus A350-1000s on order
In January 2024, Delta announced a firm order for 20 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, with additional options. While the initial plan was for these planes to be delivered to the Atlanta-based airline as of 2026, that timeline got pushed back, and the first delivery is now expected in 2027. The deliveries are supposed to happen pretty quickly, with all 20 A350-1000s joining the fleet by 2028 (or realistically early 2029, given how common delivery delays are).
The A350-1000 is an incredibly capable plane with great unit costs and impressive range, and it’s among my favorite planes to fly. So this plane will allow Delta to fly just about anywhere it could want to serve.
Delta’s A350-1000 order is the first time that any US airline committed to the A350-1000. Of course Delta was already a huge A350-900 customer, as the airline has dozens of those jets. So the A350-1000 offers some incremental capacity, which Delta plans on using for a premium layout (which further helps boost range).
For context on Delta’s orders for “next generation” aircraft, here’s how things currently stand:
- Delta has 39 Airbus A330-900neos, with 16 more on order, to be delivered as of 2029
- Delta has 40 Airbus A350-900s, with 19 more on order, and deliveries of those are ongoing
- Delta has 20 Airbus A350-1000s on order, to be delivered in 2027 and 2028, plus options for 20 more
- Delta has 30 Boeing 787-10s on order, to be delivered as of 2031, plus options for 30 more
So Delta has quite the pipeline of wide body jets, which is way bigger than American’s order book, but not nearly as big as United’s order book.
How Delta plans to configure its Airbus A350-1000s
Delta hasn’t formally unveiled the details of its new Airbus A350-1000s. We know that the planes are expected to be in a premium configuration, but that’s just the standard in the US airline industry nowadays, so that’s hardly noteworthy.
For that matter, I wouldn’t expect the layout to be quite as premium as United’s new Boeing 787-9s, which feature only 222 seats, and a staggering 64 business class seats (including a new Polaris product).
We do know that Delta plans to introduce a new product standard on its A350-1000s, including rolling out new Delta One Suites. JonNYC has shared for quite some time that Delta plans to be the launch customer for the new Thompson Aero VantageNOVA product, with A350-1000s expected to get somewhere around 53 business class seats.
This is a product that can either be in a herringbone or reverse herringbone layout. I’m sure it’ll be perfectly nice, but I wouldn’t get too excited in terms of expecting this to be cutting edge, as it’s a pretty space efficient product. We’ve reached the point where the innovation with business class seats comes in the form of tech upgrades and other gadgets, rather than actual space.
Where Delta plans to fly its Airbus A350-1000s
It’s interesting to see how Delta’s long haul strategy is evolving over time. For so many years, Delta’s long haul strategy has been so heavily focused on serving joint venture hubs, with most flights to places like London (LHR), Paris (CDG), Amsterdam (AMS), and Seoul (ICN).
Of course that’s in addition to seasonal summer Europe flying (where it’s easy enough to make money), plus chasing subsidies, to destinations like Brisbane (BNE) and Riyadh (RUH). Now, Delta claims to be turning a bit of a corner with its strategy, and increasingly wants to serve more long haul destinations nonstop, and we’ll see how that goes.
As mentioned above, of course there’s the Riyadh service, but it’s hard to take that too seriously in the context of a commercial strategy, since it’s basically funded by the government of Saudi Arabia (though Delta CEO Ed Bastian has quite the narrative).
However, we are seeing Delta expand long haul beyond that. For example, this summer the airline will be launching flights to Hong Kong (HKG), and on top of that, we know Delta plans to launch flights to Delhi (DEL), Singapore (SIN), and beyond.
I have to imagine that a key part of this ultra long haul service involves the A350-1000, and that this is the plane that will be used to expand to these kinds of markets.
Now, it’s going to be fascinating to see how the economics of these routes work, as this kind of ultra long haul flying is outside of Delta’s typical wheelhouse. United is of course the dominant “big three” carrier when it comes to its international route network, so Delta is playing catch up there. It’s anyone’s guess how much success Delta will find in markets like Delhi, Hong Kong, Singapore, etc.
So we’ll see how this all works out, but it does seem to me like the A350-1000s are intended for ultra long haul growth to new markets, rather than these planes simply replacing planes on existing routes. Admittedly I expect we’ll also see some A350-1000s flying to places like Seoul Incheon.
Bottom line
In early 2024, Delta placed an order for 20 Airbus A350-1000s, which will join Delta’s fleet as of early 2027. The plane offers great economics and passenger experience, and I can’t wait to see a US airline finally flying this plane.
While there are still a lot more questions than answers, the expectation is that Delta will use these A350-1000s for ultra long haul flights, to new markets like Delhi, Singapore, and beyond. The planes are also expected to be in a premium configuration, and will boast new Delta One Suites.
With the first plane potentially in service in just over a year, we should learn more pretty soon!
What do you make of Delta’s Airbus A350-1000 plans?
The business class window seats in the article are configured so your back is up against the aisle and you’re facing the window. This makes it very hard to look out the window. The airline can configure the seat so you’re facing the aisle with your back up to the window. This still makes looking out the window hard. I’d prefer the 350-900 or 330-900 configuration if you get the row that’s closest to the window.
Compared to the Boeing 787-9, the Airbus A350-1000:
Carries up to 74 more passengers
Carries up to 8 more LD3 cargo containers
Has 30% more fuel capacity
Flies up to 1500 miles further
The A350-1000 IS the long range leader and Delta will exclusively fly it among airlines in the Americas.
The 787-9 just comes up short.
I expect Tim Dunn to cum so hard it causes a second Great Flood.
I think that I figured it all out. His condition is not linked to Delta. It’s related to feel relevant and important. He must be so frustrated in life that he developed this condition in which he must convince himself that he is very successful and relevant. If you look close enough, he feels that DL’s success is linked to him. Only that would explain his obsession with who’s doing better than who. If UA...
I think that I figured it all out. His condition is not linked to Delta. It’s related to feel relevant and important. He must be so frustrated in life that he developed this condition in which he must convince himself that he is very successful and relevant. If you look close enough, he feels that DL’s success is linked to him. Only that would explain his obsession with who’s doing better than who. If UA or AA or any other airline were in the position that DL is today, he would have the same obsession that he has with DL, bit with that airline. So whenever someone mentions DL or the close second (UA), his condition kicks in and he can’t control it. But I still think that he can turn it around with medical treatment and finally live a happier proper successful life. Right now, being a laughing stock in a travel blog seems to be his definition of success. I really feel bad for him.
Actually, any “Obsession” which people might think affects TD, is clearly minuscule compared to the gigantic obsession, some who post herein, so eagerly display towards Tim.
Get off his case trolls and get on with something useful, like actually contributing with a post worthy of this site.
Numpties!
You seem to not be able to differentiate being a laughing stock from being an obsession.
People are not obsessed with Tim. People are obsessed with him making a fool out of himself and providing gold entertainment for free.
Just to make things clear to the propaganda swallowing naysayers ….
In 2025, Boeing reported as delivering all of 600 aircraft …. well done the workers.
However, Airbus delivered a staggering 793 aircraft …. would you believe that is almost one third more aircraft than Boeing! Will Boeing ever catch up with the dominant Airbus?
you're a really strange troll. The US and Europe are quite lucky to have such great manufacturers.
Are you disputing the published facts or just trolling my post Max?
Either way I’m sure that Ben, will thank you for your click, in spite of the strange content of your post.
again. You're nothing but a troll. Accept it and move on.
You say nothing of substance to include today where it seems to be trying to troll about Boeing and Airbus?
You pretend to be some 70 year old Brit that travels the world while caring enough about the US aviation industry to troll an entire website nearly dedicated to it.
You variously claim to be the guest and diamond profile user and...
again. You're nothing but a troll. Accept it and move on.
You say nothing of substance to include today where it seems to be trying to troll about Boeing and Airbus?
You pretend to be some 70 year old Brit that travels the world while caring enough about the US aviation industry to troll an entire website nearly dedicated to it.
You variously claim to be the guest and diamond profile user and then not while keeping a persona you routinely defeat.
One almost might think you're yet another of someone else's numerous personas...
For your own sake as an elderly Brit, I sincerely hope your final years aren't boring enough to spend them on a US website dedicated to US-based travelers (while it does attract internationals)
but given your inordinate amount of time on this website, it's hard to ignore that you genuinely seem to be spending your final years on this earth trolling this website which begs the question of who you really are...
and...
For your own sake as an elderly Brit, I sincerely hope your final years aren't boring enough to spend them on a US website dedicated to US-based travelers (while it does attract internationals)
but given your inordinate amount of time on this website, it's hard to ignore that you genuinely seem to be spending your final years on this earth trolling this website which begs the question of who you really are...
and most likely it's some loser like 1990 that actually has a diamond account not registered to himself. But your pure lack of normal English and poor grammar does seem very linked to 1990
Settle down, Maxwell.
MaxPower or the troll Plain Jane, etc, that is the question?
The same rhetoric and obsession with me and my website status. The same question about my nationality. The same obsession with my “Persona” …. do you actually know what the word means Max/Jane, etc?
Ignorant people can infer whatever they like from my posts, I have no control over the feeble minds of others. Now get on with your knitting Plain Jane, or,...
MaxPower or the troll Plain Jane, etc, that is the question?
The same rhetoric and obsession with me and my website status. The same question about my nationality. The same obsession with my “Persona” …. do you actually know what the word means Max/Jane, etc?
Ignorant people can infer whatever they like from my posts, I have no control over the feeble minds of others. Now get on with your knitting Plain Jane, or, whomever you are. However, I am sure that Ben, will appreciate your clicks from time to time, yes, a true Walter Mitty.
Dear, dear Max, being pressed for time earlier I almost missed your continuation rant, that post starting: “For your own sake” …. Therefore, let me respond presently.
Please be assured that my “Final years” are far from boing, especially following a stupendous AF LP, flight to SIN, a week at Raffles and now a relaxing stay in our Penang beach house. One suspects that you are not in a position to enjoy such amenities, nor,...
Dear, dear Max, being pressed for time earlier I almost missed your continuation rant, that post starting: “For your own sake” …. Therefore, let me respond presently.
Please be assured that my “Final years” are far from boing, especially following a stupendous AF LP, flight to SIN, a week at Raffles and now a relaxing stay in our Penang beach house. One suspects that you are not in a position to enjoy such amenities, nor, ever will be in your lifetime. One can feel the jealousy in your published words. Shame upon you Max.
On the subject of words, etc. I really do find that your criticism of my written English to be extremely offensive Max. Especially from one who lacks even the basic knowledge of how to start a written paragraph. Did nobody teach you to start a new paragraph with a capital letter, as in contrast to your “but given” …. A poor show Max, which ably demonstrates your own lack of knowledge in relation to the English language, yes? Both you and Tim Dunn must have been educated by the same tutors perhaps?
Then Max, to add insult to injury you go on to copy Tim yet again. This time by starting another new paragraph with the word “and”. Yes, “and”, again a small letter A! One should never, ever, start a sentence or paragraph with the word “and”. In Great Britain, even first year children are taught the basics of written English, something which has obviously been overlooked in the U.S. education system.
Finally, you note no ‘and’, you go on to accuse 1990, of being a looser. The fact remains Max that it is you who is demonstrating your “Looser” credentials most eloquently. Thank you for proving your inadequate personality most graphically for all to see. Now, show your MaxPower over your keyboard warrior mentality by keeping your ill gotten advice and comments to yourself, yes?
Delta is way ahead of AA on wide bodies but they are also not way behind UAL - yall forget the financial pieces they own in other airlines just using VA or AM their 40-49% ownership - makes up for whatever incremental number UAL is ahead and its boosts their stock in a way UAL or AA don’t have access to. When things go wrong you can leave with equity in the form of aircraft #latam
lol. this is the most Tim Dunn "delta has just as many widebodies as UA" nonsense I've ever seen lol
Delta's investments in AM, VA, LA, and KE have made these carriers unprofitable before and after Covid though some are doing better now.
Delta only has "friends" because they buy into these carriers at their absolute lowest points then bleeds them dry with bad contracts.
first, DL invested in those companies because they needed financial help and add strategic value. It is a strategy that has worked far better for DL than any other airline that has tried it.
and it all came about because DL saw the opportunity to cement partnerships and be present in board rooms which even JVs do not afford.
and, the fleets of other carriers do not count in DL's fleet counts any more than...
first, DL invested in those companies because they needed financial help and add strategic value. It is a strategy that has worked far better for DL than any other airline that has tried it.
and it all came about because DL saw the opportunity to cement partnerships and be present in board rooms which even JVs do not afford.
and, the fleets of other carriers do not count in DL's fleet counts any more than people - like Max - try to count AS' capacity as AA's because they are in the same alliance - not even JV partners.
and specific to the comparison of DL vs. UA widebody fleets, DL does not have a domestic widebody fleet but it is also smaller to Hawaii than United which is a part of the usage of the 777-200 fleet (at least the part that is not parked for Pratt engine parts shortages).
and don't be pulled into the endless size comparisons that some want to make. As has been pointed out over and over, DL just uses its fleet and its partners more efficiently to deliver profits and revenues.
and the whole point of the A350-1000 and the newer 359s is to grow DL's network in places where DL is not as strong as UA - which is East and South Asia and the Middle East as well as build on DL's strength in Africa while increasing capacity to Europe and S. America via 767 to 339 upgrades - all before the 787-10s arrive and take upgauging to a new level.
DL sat out 10 years of growth to Asia but they are ready to go and their fleet provides proof they have what they need to succeed as they and no other US airline has ever done in the global market.
Investing in airlines? Airlines should know better. :)
It's still the most evil airline in the world flying flaming French dog waste. Nothing changes.
heavy drinking night, yesterday?
You do realize that your hometown fav has hundreds of Airbus aircraft on order and in service as do nearly all US airlines?
Airbus delivered to DL while Boeing flailed for the past decade; AA and UA recognize that Airbus builds high quality and capable products and DL is back to Boeing because Boeing is fixing its problems.
No drinking. All Airbuses suck. All US airlines with majority Airbus fleets are traitors. Delta is outright evil. And United always has the option of canceling those orders, which they will when Boeing planes become available, placing their Aurbuses in niche roles only.
except that American and United do plan to use their A321XLRs in key roles and AA always will have a very large A320 family fleet while UA's will be large.
And the A220 is a N. American product, Airbus in name only.
If you weren't as hateful in your statements, people could rationally converse with you -but that is probably less of a goal than for you to spew hatred.
I don't want debate or discussion, because I am correct in all my assertions.
AeroB13a, "Introducing the A350, with the addition of world class cabin enhancement, will ensure that they maintain their superiority over the other U.S. carriers."
DL already flies the A350-900 so next year they are 'introducing' the A350-1000 with yet another (5th) different international business class seat/suite that is reportedly copying AA & UA.
https://www.reddit.com/r/delta/comments/1bnh8cu/a_complete_ranking_of_d1_seats_and_suites_with/
…. and you point is rebel?
DL is not introducing the A350 and the 35X business class seats will be Delta's 5th different International business class seat/suite version.
Delta One Suites (A350-900, A330-900neo): Privacy doors and direct aisle access in a 1-2-1 configuration.
Reverse Herringbone (A330-200/300): A 1-2-1 layout.
Staggered (Boeing 767-400ER): Refurbished with, in some cases, privacy screens.
"Coffin" Style (Older 767-300ER): Older, narrower 2-2-2 configuration, considered less desirable.
5th version (A350-1000): Reportedly, herringbone/reverse herringbone like AA & UA.
DL is not introducing the A350 and the 35X business class seats will be Delta's 5th different International business class seat/suite version.
Delta One Suites (A350-900, A330-900neo): Privacy doors and direct aisle access in a 1-2-1 configuration.
Reverse Herringbone (A330-200/300): A 1-2-1 layout.
Staggered (Boeing 767-400ER): Refurbished with, in some cases, privacy screens.
"Coffin" Style (Older 767-300ER): Older, narrower 2-2-2 configuration, considered less desirable.
5th version (A350-1000): Reportedly, herringbone/reverse herringbone like AA & UA.
all of that to say that DL already has 80 widebodies with Delta One Suites on its 359s and 339s. The A330CEO family fleet gets suite upgrades starting this fall so DL will soar past 120 widebodies with Suites, giving it one of the largest Suite-equipped fleets in the world and well above anything AA or UA will have in that time
in contrast, AA, which like most other airlines, never tried to pursue...
all of that to say that DL already has 80 widebodies with Delta One Suites on its 359s and 339s. The A330CEO family fleet gets suite upgrades starting this fall so DL will soar past 120 widebodies with Suites, giving it one of the largest Suite-equipped fleets in the world and well above anything AA or UA will have in that time
in contrast, AA, which like most other airlines, never tried to pursue a strategy of having the same business class seat across its fleet - and they have multiple new 789s with Suites and are starting work on their 777 fleet.
UA, which dumbed down Polaris to fit on the 767, had the weakest last generation product and will be the slowest to a true suite in business class
and that is before we talk about the range of the A350 which beats the 787 in either 350 version and the 350 with economics that blow the 787 out of the water.
We realize that you are incapable of seeing reality, rebel, because of your connection to UA but UA's grow, grow, grow strategy and committed to Polaris as the weakest product leaves it very vulnerable to AA on the 787 and 777 and to DL on the A350/330 combo over the next 5 years followed by the 787s which will give DL not only a far more capable and efficient widebody fleet but also one that is much further along from a product standpoint.
Someday, everyone has to come to the conclusion they bet on the wrong horse
That day is here for you, rebel. UA's strategies are leaving it in last place in everything other than size and they can't translate larger size into more profits.
DL called it right, AA is doing it better on a smaller scale. both will take advantage of UA's vulnerabilities - including its incessant need to pick a fight w/ anyone that shows up (other than DL)
Disadvantage UA
The whole suites = three foot doors is funny.
Delta is excellent at many things, but a mess when it comes to aircraft interiors, hard product consistency and refurbishment. I think it is telling that they are yet again changing course back to a herringbone configuration and it shows up in the passenger numbers.
PRASM - CASM
UA 2025: 16.18-16.46 = -0.28, 2024: 16.66-16.70 = -0.04
AA 2025: 16.58-17.76 = -1.18, 2024: 16.93-17.61...
The whole suites = three foot doors is funny.
Delta is excellent at many things, but a mess when it comes to aircraft interiors, hard product consistency and refurbishment. I think it is telling that they are yet again changing course back to a herringbone configuration and it shows up in the passenger numbers.
PRASM - CASM
UA 2025: 16.18-16.46 = -0.28, 2024: 16.66-16.70 = -0.04
AA 2025: 16.58-17.76 = -1.18, 2024: 16.93-17.61 = -0.68
SW 2025: 14.18-15.35 = -1.17, 2024: 14.09-15.02 =-0.93
DL 2025: 17.37-19.31 = -1.94, 2024: 17.65-19.30 = -1.65
and yet UA is committing to developing a suite product. THEY think it is a real product that needs to be had.
and yes, we get your usual argument about revenue from flying.
Problem is that UA has the exactly same model as DL and AA with loyalty program and maintenance contracts as non-transportation revenue. UA tried to buy a refinery but failed.
The sooner you accept that DL runs a better business and...
and yet UA is committing to developing a suite product. THEY think it is a real product that needs to be had.
and yes, we get your usual argument about revenue from flying.
Problem is that UA has the exactly same model as DL and AA with loyalty program and maintenance contracts as non-transportation revenue. UA tried to buy a refinery but failed.
The sooner you accept that DL runs a better business and airline, the sooner we can start having real discussions. You simply hide under your desk at Willis Tower trying to convince us why UA is better when it is clear it is not.
And UA's profit advantage for passengers disappears when they are forced to pay the 80% of their workforce industry average or better wages and benefits. The difference between AA - whose CEO Noted the huge labor cost advantage that UA has - and DL is that DL has enough other sources and quantities of non-transportation revenue that it can pay its people better and still end up at the top of the heap financially.
and you do realize that Southwest's two letter identifier is WN, not SW?
That's why I said DL is excellent at so many things like credit cards and refineries for example, but the airline is the foundation and it is showing cracks.
you simply cannot admit that UA is really not #1 so you argue about all of the things that DL does to be able to pay its employees top tier compensation while ignoring that UA's advantage exists only because its employees have been fed KirbyKoolaid for so long that they give up their own well-being for the sake of the Kompany.
UA's profits will be squarely between AA and DL with comparable labor costs; UA...
you simply cannot admit that UA is really not #1 so you argue about all of the things that DL does to be able to pay its employees top tier compensation while ignoring that UA's advantage exists only because its employees have been fed KirbyKoolaid for so long that they give up their own well-being for the sake of the Kompany.
UA's profits will be squarely between AA and DL with comparable labor costs; UA could have much higher profits if it weren't so committed to market share and size while fighting with every carrier that comes along - two things DL DOES NOT do which explains why DL does so much better - along w/ the non-transportation revenue strategies that DL has developed over decades and which UA could have, but did not do
rebel, before we retire for the night I thought that you might like to read my post again. Stop, think about the actual words. Then try not to infer something which is unwritten or not even eluded to, then hopefully you should feel better about berating me unnecessarily, yes?
No hard feelings …. :-)
I must have confused sarcasm for incongruousness? My bad. ;)
It is widely reported that DL, are happy to run older aircraft for longer than most. Believing that quality maintenance programs can be extremely cost effective.
Introducing the A350, with the addition of world class cabin enhancement, will ensure that they maintain their superiority over the other U.S. carriers.
UA's fleet and esp. its international fleet is older than DL's. Airplanes can be run longer than many carriers have done for years.
DL is and will continue to retire older widebodies but DL's widebody fleet doesn't have multiple airplanes grounded because there is not and will not be parts support for engines.
and, yes, the A350 is the most capable and efficient widebody available. UA has had it on order for years. They have...
UA's fleet and esp. its international fleet is older than DL's. Airplanes can be run longer than many carriers have done for years.
DL is and will continue to retire older widebodies but DL's widebody fleet doesn't have multiple airplanes grounded because there is not and will not be parts support for engines.
and, yes, the A350 is the most capable and efficient widebody available. UA has had it on order for years. They have no choice but to watch DL gain more and more advantage over the next few years or finally take on the A350 at UA which will create enormous operational complexity.
As usual, DL is playing 4D chess in its fleet planning and UA is playing footsies with its competitors.
TD, "the A350 is the most capable and efficient widebody available"
And yet the 787 has outsold the A350 by a wide margin 34%/99% over the last 5/1 year(s) and overall by 52%.
Orders: last 5 yrs/ last yr
787: 820/368
350: 614/185
It's actually not even close.
you are confused, as usual.
Sales do not equate to capability or efficiency.
the 787 sells as well as it does because it had a substantial head start, the 338 - the closest parallel to the 788 - does not sell (neither does the 788 to most airlines but was the starting point for the 787), and Airbus has two families that compete with the 787 - the 330NEO and the A350.
none of which...
you are confused, as usual.
Sales do not equate to capability or efficiency.
the 787 sells as well as it does because it had a substantial head start, the 338 - the closest parallel to the 788 - does not sell (neither does the 788 to most airlines but was the starting point for the 787), and Airbus has two families that compete with the 787 - the 330NEO and the A350.
none of which changes that the A350 is simply more efficient and capable, but, as usual, you are incapable of admitting that DL has managed its fleet strategy to get the best from both Airbus and Boeing, something AA and UA cannot do unless they spend far more money.
DL has the fleet advantage and it doesn't really matter whether you can admit it or not.
You don't seem to understand that all engineering involves compromises. OEMs try to produce airliners that allow airlines to best serve their markets and customers in the most profitable manner possible. While BA has had manufacturing issues they have nailed the product offering on the wide body front. The market has spoken clearly. The 787 beats the A350 by a wide margin.
So far the A35X has a grand total of 20 North American orders....
You don't seem to understand that all engineering involves compromises. OEMs try to produce airliners that allow airlines to best serve their markets and customers in the most profitable manner possible. While BA has had manufacturing issues they have nailed the product offering on the wide body front. The market has spoken clearly. The 787 beats the A350 by a wide margin.
So far the A35X has a grand total of 20 North American orders. It'll be interesting to see if UA orders any of them.
I understand the tradeoffs involved here perfectly. You are the one that doesn't understand and accept them.
I believe DL has flown or has on order every widebody that has been produced except for the A340 and the A380.
DL, like AA and UA, acquired some fleets on its own and others through mergers.
DL has rejected a number of models in favor of others.
Specific to current generation widebodies, Airbus grew the A330...
I understand the tradeoffs involved here perfectly. You are the one that doesn't understand and accept them.
I believe DL has flown or has on order every widebody that has been produced except for the A340 and the A380.
DL, like AA and UA, acquired some fleets on its own and others through mergers.
DL has rejected a number of models in favor of others.
Specific to current generation widebodies, Airbus grew the A330 - an outgrowth of the A300/310 which was Airbus' first widebody - and overtook the 767 in size and orders.
The 787 was intended to be a replacement for the 767 and the 764 and 788 are pretty similarly sized.
The 789 is a great airplane and the 787-10 is the result of a stretch that Boeing was able to do to increase size but not get the full range of the 789.
The A350 was developed after the 787 and the A350 is simply larger and more capable - the same strategy Airbus used with the 320 vs. the 737, the 330 vs. the 767, and the 380 vs the 747 - although the 380 turned out to be a financial disaster but so too was the 748.
The 350 family is simply more capable, larger and more efficient. Boeing's answer is the 777X.
Delta chose its new generation widebody - the A350 - after AA and UA already committed to the 787. The A350 of today is much more capable than it was when DL first ordered it. the 35K will simply do what no other airline can do at even comparable costs, let alone number of passengers until perhaps the 777-8.
UA has the choice to either buy the A350 to match DL's range, size and efficiency, operate multiple 789s for each 35K in terms of size, and take seats off of the 789 to get the range the 350s have.
Or UA can order the 777X and wait for the 777-8.
and DL still chose the 787 for its biggest model because its unit cost can't be beat by anything Airbus makes.
Let's see but the DL 35K will be the new generation flagship not just for DL but for the US industry.
DL played its widebody card better than any other US airline and UA has no choice but to accept DL's advantage or spend far more money to try to match it - which will only help DL's bottom line advantage.
The sooner you recognize these realities instead of continually pushing a narrative that UA is on top when they clearly are not, the sooner I will have to spend less time here and we can move onto other things.
"I believe DL has flown or has on order every widebody that has been produced except for the A340 and the A380."
And DL has almost as many different interiors. What a mess!
And again. The market has spoken. The 787 has outsold the A350 by a wide margin 34%/99% over the last 5/1 year(s) and overall by 52%. It's not even close.
UA's int'l network dwarfs DL's and the 787 is and will be its flexible and efficient workhorse.
and you still can't grasp that size does not have anything to do with success.
Airbus has built a larger and more capable airplane in the A350 than the B787.
UA's int'l network is larger but it does not dwarf DL's.
and what you really fear is that DL has the strategies and airplanes coming over the next few years to seriously take a piece out of what has been UA's strength - its international network.
THAT Is what you are deathly afraid of.
PRASM - CASM
UA 2025: 16.18-16.46 = -0.28, 2024: 16.66-16.70 = -0.04
AA 2025: 16.58-17.76 = -1.18, 2024: 16.93-17.61 = -0.68
SW 2025: 14.18-15.35 = -1.17, 2024: 14.09-15.02 =-0.93
DL 2025: 17.37-19.31 = -1.94, 2024: 17.65-19.30 = -1.65
again, bottom line results are not just about carrying passengers.
And UA's costs will go up as soon as they pay the 80% of their workforce that is currently subsidizing Kirby's ego industry average compensation.
you do realize that your keyboard pounding here doesn't change anything in real life? All your arguing just proves that you THINK you can convince someone here when everyone w/ intelligence - which excludes you - knows what is...
again, bottom line results are not just about carrying passengers.
And UA's costs will go up as soon as they pay the 80% of their workforce that is currently subsidizing Kirby's ego industry average compensation.
you do realize that your keyboard pounding here doesn't change anything in real life? All your arguing just proves that you THINK you can convince someone here when everyone w/ intelligence - which excludes you - knows what is really going on.
Delta just runs a better airline and business.
One day you'll realize that you bet on the wrong horse.
UA is building their airline foundation, market share and brand loyalty just like DL did. The other revenue including loyalty, credit cards and premium builds upon that. You keep conflating the different parts of the business. DL is content maximize profit largely on its existing base.
Not launching service, but resuming service to HKG, SIN and DEL.
Anyone know what’s the plan with Delta’s 767 fleet? Those J seats are pretty dated, no?
plan as DL execs have said is for it to be off international service by 2028 and fully retired by 2030. The majority of the 763 fleet does not fly international most of the year so narrowbodies including the premium configured 321NEOs will eliminate alot of the 763's flying w/o taking on widebodies.
DL and Safran will get a Delta One seat on the 321NEO by 2028
"DL and Safran will get a Delta One seat on the 321NEO by 2028"
Yikes! What a mess.
That is 100% terrible Delta took delivery of its first A321NEO with lie flat seats in 2025 most of those aircraft should have been delivered and in service by the end of 2026 and now you're saying it will be 2028 before the first is delivered? Meanwhile AA will have plenty of A321XLRs on domestic routes as well as some international routes and UA will have A321NEO Coastliners and A321XLRs in service while Delta before...
That is 100% terrible Delta took delivery of its first A321NEO with lie flat seats in 2025 most of those aircraft should have been delivered and in service by the end of 2026 and now you're saying it will be 2028 before the first is delivered? Meanwhile AA will have plenty of A321XLRs on domestic routes as well as some international routes and UA will have A321NEO Coastliners and A321XLRs in service while Delta before Delta gets off the ground.
I said this a a few years ago Delta is resting on its laurels since covid. Luckily AA doesn't have their stuff together to challenge Delta but United is not only challenging Delta they are pulling ahead. United will have brand new A321 with lie flat seating while Delta will have to try and make due with uncompetitive 763s (Delta One product on those planes isn't competitive at all) and they probably will have to extend the life of their 75S because they can't afford to retire aircraft with lie flat seats at this time.
So Delta is already coming out with Delta One suites 2.0 while the A330s that Delta has still have circa 2009-2010 seats. Those seats are going to be at least 20 years old by the time they are replaced.
the A330CEO fleet begins cabin refurbishment in the fall; that project will likely be done before the 20th 35K is delivered.
"the A330CEO fleet begins cabin refurbishment in the fall; that project will likely be done before the 20th 35K is delivered."
Don't hold your breath. Yikes!
“Business Elite” would like a word
Flagship? *ehem* that’s American Airlines IP.
Next up: Delta ‘Polaris’ seats; United ‘D1’ dining area… (kinda already exists at EWR.)
Describing something as a “flagship” denotes it as largest, finest, or most important. It’s unlikely that Delta would adopt any AA branding, as that would not only invite a lawsuit, but would also risk associating them with American’s raggedy-ass, bargain-basement product.
You, sir, have a way with words… is ‘raggity-ass’ one of those Chocolate Thunder from Down Under words?
Pete, as you can see, the truth hurts those U.S. citizens who have allowed themselves to be manipulated by the American propaganda machine.
Kind of makes sense since delta sky pesos and basic business crap are going to drag down the company to AAs level.
Soon as AA fires isom delta will be the #3 airline.
Did you just join to bash Delta?
I wonder if there’s any merit to doing ATL-SYD with this plane. I’m guessing not since you never really hear it discussed, but seems like it’d be a logical counter to AA’s and UA’s DFW-SYD and IAH-SYD, respectively.
Obviously they have the benefit of partners on the other end, but could the Atlanta megahub unlock enough destinations in the SE/NE/Midwest U.S. that aren’t served by DFW or IAH to fill up a plane to Australia 3-4x per week?
No because it's not only a significantly longer route, it'd also be much more lower yielding as a connecting route, and AA and UA both have benefits of South Pacific joint ventures.
Think we are more likely to see Delta do AUS -SYD then ATL.
If Delta wants to be launch cusotmer for Vantage Nova they better be quick, as I believe Thai wants to start retrofitting 777s with that product in 2027 as well.
it DL has chosen that seat, the seat order is already in production; the first plane will roll out of Airbus factories in less than a year.
It will be interesting to see how DL uses its 359s vs. its 35Ks.
In the 275 seat configuration, the highest takeoff weight versions of the 359 as well as presumed 315 seat version of the 35K with the additional fuel tanks will each have close to 18 hours range in the air. With only a 40 seat difference, the two planes will be very similar in capability with the 35K being able to carry...
It will be interesting to see how DL uses its 359s vs. its 35Ks.
In the 275 seat configuration, the highest takeoff weight versions of the 359 as well as presumed 315 seat version of the 35K with the additional fuel tanks will each have close to 18 hours range in the air. With only a 40 seat difference, the two planes will be very similar in capability with the 35K being able to carry much more cargo on medium to long haul (vs. ULH) flights.
and, no, UA doesn't have anything that can or will be able to do what either of the A350 models will do without having taking 50 or more seats off the plane.
as for the cabin, the 35K is still rumored to have 50 Delta One Suites - which will be the largest premium cabin DL has had in a very long time. (yes, DL's 767-300ERs had over 40 business class seats at one time).
and I will bet that these planes will heavily be used to ICN as well as destinations in East and SE Asia including SIN and MNL and potentially HKG in time. The larger size of the 35K will help w/ economics on flights to India - which DL will be able to from interior US hubs as well as deeper into India from NYC.
The first aircraft has been assigned an Airbus production slot which is only a few numbers after the last original order 359 so the first 35K will probably be seen later this year and be delivered to DL in the spring of 2027.
It is notable that DL went from "they have a shortage of widebody orders" as some said to being in very good shape in a matter of a couple weeks. adding the current 35K order, the latest 339/359 order, and the 787s plus options, DL will receive scores of widebodies over the next 10 years and have an international fleet far larger and more capable than they have now.
Welcome to 2015, “flagship” 50 seat business cabin!
“Far larger and more capable” and they paid top dollar for it because they were slow to the game. UA got an absolute steal with their 787 order, now Delta is paying much more because they were late to the game. This 4D chess you talk about cost them a pretty penny!
Tim,
I think one place we’ll see DL deploy the 35K in to Johannesburg and Cape Town. The current hop skip can be avoided with the better range.
Feels like this plane is just too big for Delta's network, but for a small number of routes.
and yet it is rumored to seat less passengers than AA has on its newest version of its 777-300s and dozens less than UA has on its 77Ws.
given that the 35K burns about 25% less than the 77W, DL could very likely support even more of these - which they likely will - or an even larger version of the A350 if Airbus ever decides to built it.
DL has moved well past...
and yet it is rumored to seat less passengers than AA has on its newest version of its 777-300s and dozens less than UA has on its 77Ws.
given that the 35K burns about 25% less than the 77W, DL could very likely support even more of these - which they likely will - or an even larger version of the A350 if Airbus ever decides to built it.
DL has moved well past being a heavily 767-300ER sized user; the A333 and 339 have dozens more seats than the 767 and the A330 family is now DL's largest fleet family.
While delta did announce plans to launch atl-del anything can happen until a start date is announced for that route so I won’t rule out the possibility delta returns to jfk-India instead to pair with the jfk-icn aircraft once that launches wouldn’t surprise me if delta does Atlanta and JFK to India when more planes arrive.
JFK-East Asia, in-general, would be nice to see for Delta (no, TLV isn’t far enough.) They likely gotta open an a350 base in NYC, though.
Delta did start SLC-ICN without opening an A350 base in SLC and flies MSP-HND/ICN/AMS on A350s without an MSP A350 base. LAX/JFK-ICN I expect to launch around Spring 2027.
What an exciting day for Tim "Tomcat" "Arnold Schwarzengger" "DinkyWinky" Dumb! I'm sure his nips are well-chafed from the extreme excitement. Delta stock is up 250% on this announcement! All employees (The Dunce included) earning a 60% bonus !
Make like Mario and pipe down.
"Tim"tamtrak... coincidence? I think not!
Now SETTLE DOWN!
Tim Dunn and I are absolutely not the same person. Nice try.
Tim Dunn?
I don’t often jump to Tim’s defence but in fairness his favourite airline seems to be crushing the main U.S. competitors on most metrics at the moment, with the occasional blip. Another major aircraft order is another achievement and possible in-part due to their incredibly strong financial position.
Kudos to Mr Dunn and DL here.
when you go to the racetrack, you have to bet on a horse (or car) and you can't change your allegiance halfway through the race.
Going to the tracks and place a bet is one thing.
A lunatic compulsive gambler stealing the PA system and brag about one race horse having super magical powers and will never lose even if it comes in last, it's still a winner, is a whole different comparison.
Pathetic. This is what United has today!
actually, SkyWest just announced on its earnings call that United has agreed to keep 30 CRJ200s in service for at least another 5 years.
UA is not only desperate for every seat it can get but clearly has on qualms about keeping the least comfortable aircraft in the skies as long as it possibly can.
Bro - is this legit the only thing you have to do? Is your MO nothing but reading blogs and finding ways to defend Delta?
Yes UA has a fleet that dwarfs DL’s fleet, with 120 more mainline planes being delivered just this year alone.
They have a huge order book of 787s, they’re growing in LAX and NYC while DL shrinks in both markets.
But holding on to some CRJs that will operate to very small markets mean UA is desperate. lol
Tim doesn’t speak from logic. He speaks from blind faith in Delta.
We all know United is too dog.
UA going to deploy all those CRJs to ORD to fuck with AA lol.