Delta Air Lines has announced an order for 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliner widebody aircraft as part of its ongoing efforts to update and streamline its fleet. The new aircraft will introduce the 787 as a new type in Delta’s lineup and supplement a previous order for 100 aircraft, with deliveries scheduled to begin after certification. Both the planes and their GE engines are designed and manufactured in the United States.
“Delta is building the fleet for the future, enhancing the customer experience, driving operational improvements and providing steady replacements for less efficient, older aircraft in the decade to come,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s chief executive officer. “Most importantly, these aircraft will be operated by the best aviation professionals in the industry, providing Delta’s welcoming, elevated and caring service to travelers worldwide.”
The addition marks another phase in Delta’s strategy to expand internationally while maintaining a strong domestic network and leveraging joint venture partnerships globally. According to Delta executives, this year will see the airline operating its largest international schedule ever.
“Today’s 787 order adds diversity to our widebody order book, while creating cost-efficient scale across all widebody fleets,” said Dan Janki, Delta’s chief financial officer. “Our fleet strategy is positioning Delta for the future by enhancing the customer experience and driving operational improvements.”
The Boeing 787-10 model offers improved fuel efficiency—about 25% better per seat—compared with previous generation widebodies it replaces. It also brings greater passenger capacity, larger premium cabins, enhanced cargo space, and upgraded amenities.
Passengers on these new planes can expect features such as large windows with tint control, spacious overhead bins, quieter cabins due to advanced fuselage technology and engine design, and higher altitude cruising for smoother flights. The aircraft are set to serve routes including transatlantic destinations and South America.
“We are excited that Delta Air Lines has selected the 787-10 to join its fleet of the future. The 787 Dreamliner’s unmatched efficiency, range and passenger comfort make it a perfect fit for Delta’s international expansion and fleet modernization,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Our team looks forward to delivering new Dreamliners to Delta and supporting their commitments to provide an exceptional passenger experience and advance sustainability in aviation.”
The new jets will feature amenities such as more premium seats—including additional Delta One Suites—and expanded options like Delta Premium Select, Comfort+, Main Cabin seating, over 1,000 hours of free entertainment content onboard via fast Wi-Fi (Delta Sync), along with premium food and beverage offerings.
Delta chose GE Aerospace’s GEnx engines for these aircraft under a new servicing agreement. The engines utilize carbon-fiber materials with innovative blade designs intended for lighter weight and greater durability.
“For more than 60 years, GE Aerospace has been proud to partner with Delta Air Lines, and we’re honored the GEnx now will be underwing to support their international growth plans,” said GE Aerospace Chairman and CEO H. Lawrence Culp Jr. “The GEnx engine will provide reliability, efficiency, and durability for years to come.”
This latest purchase fits within previously stated capital expenditure plans at Delta. With this commitment included, Delta now has orders totaling 232 narrowbody jets plus 54 widebody jets scheduled for delivery in coming years.
Delta Air Lines operates globally as a major carrier offering both passenger flights—connecting over 350 destinations worldwide—and cargo services through an extensive international system supported by a diverse fleet from multiple manufacturers such as Airbus and Boeing (official website). The company is headquartered in Atlanta (official website).
