American Airlines Shifts Delivery Schedule and Defers 787-9s, Expects A321XLR by 4Q 2024

American Airlines has adjusted its aircraft delivery plans, deferring the receipt of ten Boeing 787-9s originally slated for 2024 and 2025 to 2028 or later, according to the airline’s quarterly report. The move is part of American Airlines’ ongoing assessment of its delivery schedules, with a focus on aligning deliveries with anticipated demand and growth plans.

The carrier now plans to introduce seven 787-9s in 2024, down from the initial plan of eleven, and four in 2025, reduced from the original ten. The first deliveries of the 787-9s are still scheduled to commence in 2024.

In a statement to Cranky Flier, American Airlines emphasized its commitment to evaluating delivery schedules in collaboration with manufacturing partners to make necessary adjustments based on evolving aircraft needs and market dynamics.

Concurrently, the View from the Wing blog reported that American Airlines Senior Vice President (Network Planning) Brian Znotins conveyed in an internal meeting that the carrier anticipates receiving its first A321-200NY(XLR) in December 2024. The delivery schedule includes an additional fifteen A321XLRs in 2025, and deliveries are expected to conclude by the end of 2027, with the majority slated for 2026.

The A321XLR, known for its extended range capabilities, is positioned to play a key role in American Airlines’ strategic plans. The carrier aims to deploy these aircraft on trans-national routes, secondary transatlantic services, convert seasonal routes to year-round operations, and increase frequencies on select routes currently served by widebodies.

As of now, American Airlines operates a fleet of thirty-seven 787-8s and twenty-two 787-9s, with additional 787-9s yet to be delivered. The carrier’s A320neo Family fleet comprises seventy A321-200NX aircraft, with four more on order from Airbus, and five A321-200Ns acquired from Alaska Airlines, with an additional five due for delivery.

The adjustments to the delivery schedule underscore American Airlines’ strategic approach to fleet management, reflecting the dynamic nature of the aviation industry and the carrier’s proactive efforts to optimize its operations. Industry observers are closely monitoring these developments as the airline adapts to market conditions and positions itself for future growth.