United Airlines Faces Boeing 767 Shortage After Accidental Maintenance Scheduling

United Airlines is currently grappling with a shortage of Boeing 767 aircraft after inadvertently sending too many of them to the maintenance shop simultaneously. With a fleet comprising 35 767-300ERs and 16 767-400ERs, totaling 51 aircraft, United relies on these models for transatlantic and domestic flights, as well as select routes to South America and Hawaii.

According to The Points Guy, United Airlines dispatched 17 of its 767-300ERs to the shop for retrofits and maintenance in October, leaving only 18 available for service. However, due to a scheduling error, an additional six 767-400ERs were also sent for similar work, reducing the available aircraft count to a mere 10.

As a result, 23 Boeing 767s were out of commission simultaneously, leaving only 28 for flight operations. This disruption had a significant impact on United’s network, leading to flight cancellations, aircraft substitutions, and inconveniences for passengers. Some individuals were rebooked on alternative flights or other airlines, while others encountered delays or downgrades.

United Airlines has acknowledged the mistake and issued apologies to affected customers. A spokesperson for the airline attributed the error to miscommunication among different departments and assured that efforts are underway to rectify the situation promptly.

Boasting a combination of capacity, range, and comfort, the Boeing 767 is among United’s oldest and most versatile aircraft types. United has been enhancing its 767 fleet by introducing new seats, entertainment systems, and Wi-Fi. The 767-300ERs feature United’s upgraded Polaris business class, offering lie-flat seats and direct aisle access, while the 767-400ERs showcase United’s Premium Plus premium economy class, providing additional legroom and amenities.

United Airlines is not the sole carrier reliant on the Boeing 767 for operations. Delta Air Lines operates a fleet of 66 767s, while Japan Airlines has 27, All Nippon Airways has 15 in service. The aircraft is also popular among cargo carriers such as FedEx and UPS.

Despite Boeing ceasing production of new passenger versions of the 767, the model is expected to remain in service for several more years. The company continues to manufacture freighter variants and military versions like the KC-46 tanker.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, united.com, airtravelanalysis.com