Delta Grows Airbus Widebody Fleet With New A330neo and A350 Order

Delta Air Lines has strengthened its long-haul growth strategy with a new order for 31 additional Airbus widebody aircraft, deepening its commitment to fleet renewal and international expansion. The order, announced on January 27, 2026, includes 16 A330-900neos and 15 A350-900s, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2029.

The transaction combines a new incremental purchase with the exercise of 10 previously secured options and also adds 20 additional widebody options for future use. Delta said the order is fully aligned with its previously announced capital expenditure and capacity plans, underscoring a disciplined approach to long-term growth.

Chief executive Ed Bastian said the additional widebodies will play a central role in expanding Delta’s global network while supporting its premium-focused strategy. He noted that the aircraft will enhance the airline’s ability to serve new and existing long-haul markets while delivering meaningful cost and efficiency benefits over the long term. Delta also reaffirmed the importance of its long-standing partnership with Airbus in supporting that strategy.

The new aircraft will significantly expand Delta’s existing Airbus widebody fleet. Once delivered, Delta’s A330-900neo fleet will grow to 55 aircraft, while its A350 fleet will reach 79 aircraft. That total includes 20 A350-1000s, which Delta expects to begin receiving in early 2027 under a previously announced order.

Delta said the new widebodies will add premium-heavy capacity across medium- and long-haul international markets. Both aircraft types offer improved fuel efficiency, lower operating costs, and extended range compared with earlier-generation widebodies, supporting stronger margins as international demand continues to recover.

The A350, in particular, remains central to Delta’s longest-range growth plans. Its performance capabilities enable the airline to serve key intercontinental markets in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the South Pacific. Delta has recently launched or announced new A350-operated routes to destinations including Taipei, Melbourne, Hong Kong, and Riyadh, reflecting the aircraft’s strategic importance.

The A330-900neo will continue to serve as a versatile platform across transatlantic and other medium- to long-haul routes, complementing the A350 fleet while offering strong economics on thinner international markets.

Both aircraft types will be powered by engines from Rolls-Royce. The A330-900neo uses the Trent 7000, which has accumulated more than four million flight hours globally, including over one million with Delta. The A350-900 will be equipped with the Trent XWB-84 EP, delivering further gains in fuel burn and range. Delta has also entered into long-term maintenance agreements with Rolls-Royce to support the engines.

All new widebody deliveries will feature Delta’s latest cabin products, including Delta One Suites, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort, and Delta Main, alongside free high-speed Wi-Fi, seatback entertainment via Delta Sync, and upgraded food and beverage offerings.

With this latest order, Delta now has firm commitments for 232 narrowbody and 85 widebody aircraft on order, reinforcing a long-term fleet strategy designed to support global growth well into the 2030s.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, news.delta.com