Delta Air Lines’ Aging 757 Fleet May Stay in Service Longer

Delta Air Lines may keep its fleet of 121 Boeing 757-200 and 757-300 aircraft operational longer than expected due to delays in 737-10 deliveries. With an average age of 27 years, Delta’s 757s rank among the oldest jets at major U.S. airlines. The airline has 100 737-10s on order, but Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for the aircraft is still pending.

Delta CFO Dan Janki recently stated that while the airline plans to resume retiring aircraft in 2024, no 757s were removed from service in 2022 or 2023. In 2023, Delta retired just one 757-200, registered as N671DN, despite earlier indications of a broader fleet phase-out.

Flexibility Amid Uncertainty
At Delta’s Investor Day, Janki highlighted the carrier’s ability to adapt its fleet strategy as Boeing progresses with the 737-10 program. Delta CEO Ed Bastian echoed this, noting that contract flexibility with Boeing allows Delta to extend the lifespan of its 757s and 737-800s if needed. Both aircraft types have been retrofitted with upgraded interiors, enhancing passenger experience.

Delta’s long-term fleet plan focuses on streamlining its fleet families from 13 to seven. The airline retired its MD-80 and MD-90 aircraft in 2020 and intends to phase out its 767-300s in the 2030s.

With delivery delays for the 737-10, the 757 fleet continues to play a pivotal role in Delta’s operations, ensuring flexibility as the airline navigates fleet modernization challenges.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, airlinegeeks.com