Delta Air Lines confirmed rumors linking it to an unprecedented order for the Airbus A350-1000. The US carrier announced on January 12 that it had reached a deal for 20 of these aircraft in addition to another 20 purchase options.
It will be the first time that an airline in the Americas introduces the A350-1000 into service, the largest variant of the A350 family. Delta already operates 28 smaller-capacity A350-900s and has another 36 aircraft pending delivery.
The A350-1000 will serve as an aircraft for long-distance flights and international hubs and fills a gap in the fleet left by the Boeing 747, which was retired in 2018 without a replacement at the time in terms of passenger capacity.
“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.”
“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 now welcomes the A350-1000, which will open even more opportunities for the airline and its customers. We are proud that our aircraft serves the entirety of Delta’s impressive global network as this stellar airline takes fleet efficiency to the next level.”
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The carrier did not reveal what the cabin configuration will be, but noted that there will be 15% more premium seats than on current jets. The A350-1000 will have Delta One Suites, Delta Premium Select and Delta Comfort+ classes, in addition to economy.
Delta is currently Airbus’ largest customer in the United States, having ordered everything from A220, A320 jets to A330neo and A350 widebodies. According to the airline, deliveries of the A350-1000 will begin in 2026.
