Delta Air Lines has announced it will expand its fleet by acquiring 31 additional Airbus widebody aircraft. This move combines a new order with the exercise of 10 options and adds 20 further future widebody options. The investment is aimed at supporting Delta’s international growth and speeding up its fleet renewal over the next several years.
“As we grow our international footprint and prepare our fleet to serve expanded long-haul markets, these aircraft will enhance our capabilities and elevate our premium offerings,” said Chief Executive Officer Ed Bastian. “We value our long-standing partnership with Airbus, and with these widebody aircraft we will see long-term growth and cost benefits for years to come.”
The airline is in the process of renewing and expanding its fleet to support its strategy focused on international and premium market growth for the coming decade. The addition of new widebody aircraft is expected to provide more premium capacity on medium- and long-haul routes, while also improving fuel efficiency and financial margins.
Robin Hayes, Chairman and CEO of Airbus in North America, stated: “We are grateful for Delta’s continued trust in Airbus products and our people. It is a privilege to power their global growth with the A330neo and A350, providing the flexibility and performance Delta needs to connect more of the world.”
Following this announcement, Delta’s A330-900 fleet will grow to 55 aircraft, while its A350 fleet will reach 79 planes—including 20 A350-1000s scheduled for delivery beginning in early 2027. The range of the A350 allows Delta to expand into key long-haul markets across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the South Pacific. Recent or upcoming routes include service to Taipei, Melbourne, Hong Kong, and Riyadh using A350 aircraft.
The A330-900 models will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines—an engine type that has accumulated over four million flight hours globally, including one million hours at Delta. The A350-900s will use Trent XWB-84 EP engines designed for enhanced fuel efficiency and range compared to previous generations. Delta has also signed long-term maintenance agreements with Rolls-Royce for these engines.
Rob Watson, President – Civil Aerospace at Rolls-Royce, commented: “Rolls-Royce is proud to have Delta Air Lines as our largest partner in the Americas, and we look forward to continuing to grow the fleet with their selection of more A330neos powered by the Trent 7000 and A350-900s powered by the Trent XWB-84 EP – all supported by our unparalleled TotalCare services offering. This reorder underpins our combined commitment to reliability, durability, and customer success.”
All new widebody aircraft delivered to Delta in coming years will feature expanded premium cabins equipped with amenities such as Delta One Suites, Delta Premium Select seats, free seatback entertainment through Delta Sync technology, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi via Delta Sync Wi-Fi system, as well as upgraded food and beverage services.
Delta continues leveraging joint ventures around the world to broaden its network reach while aiming for a consistent customer experience across regions.
The company confirmed that this latest order fits within previously disclosed capital expenditure plans. In total—including this announcement—Delta now has orders placed for 232 narrowbody jets along with 85 widebody aircraft set for delivery over future years.
