Delta will add 30 new Boeing 787 Dreamliner widebody aircraft as it continues to refresh and streamline its fleet while improving fuel efficiency and the in-flight experience. The 787 will be a new fleet type for Delta and complements a previous order for 100 Boeing 737-10 MAX aircraft (deliveries to begin upon certification). This order underscores the strength of the U.S. aerospace industry and advanced manufacturing, with both the aircraft and its GE engines designed and manufactured in the United States.
“Delta is building the fleet for the future, enhancing the customer experience, driving operational improvements and providing steady replacements for less efficient, older aircraft in the decade to come,” Ed Bastian, Delta’s chief executive officer, said in a statement. “Most importantly, these aircraft will be operated by the best aviation professionals in the industry, providing Delta’s welcoming, elevated and caring service to travelers worldwide.”
This order represents the next step in Delta’s international evolution, broadening its global reach and building on a strong foundation for international growth supported by Delta’s Domestic network and joint venture partnerships in every region of the world. Delta is expecting to operate the largest international schedule in its history this year.
“Today’s 787 order adds diversity to our widebody order book, while creating cost-efficient scale across all widebody fleets,” said Dan Janki, Delta’s chief financial officer. “Our fleet strategy is positioning Delta for the future by enhancing the customer experience and driving operational improvements.”
The 787-10 is an ideal addition to Delta’s Transatlantic and South American network, offering 25 percent better fuel efficiency per seat, more capacity, larger premium cabins, and enhanced cargo capability compared to the previous generation widebody aircraft it will replace.
The 787’s wide, spacious, and quiet cabin with large, tint-controlled windows and spacious overhead storage bins will provide customers a premium experience on international flights. The aircraft can climb to higher altitudes, offering smoother flights. An improved engine design as well as other fuselage technologies reduce noise for a quieter flight experience.
“We are excited that Delta Air Lines has selected the 787-10 to join its fleet of the future. The 787 Dreamliner’s unmatched efficiency, range and passenger comfort make it a perfect fit for Delta’s international expansion and fleet modernization,” Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said in a statement. “Our team looks forward to delivering new Dreamliners to Delta and supporting their commitments to provide an exceptional passenger experience and advance sustainability in aviation.”
The new higher-gauge aircraft will feature more premium seats, including Delta One Suites—which currently comprise 45 percent of all Delta One seats across Delta’s wide-body fleet—with more Delta Premium Select and Delta Comfort in addition to Main Cabin. It will also offer more than 1,000 hours of free in-flight entertainment; fast, free Delta Sync Wi-Fi; and premium food and beverage options.
Delta has selected GE Aerospace’s GEnx engines to power the aircraft and has entered into an agreement with GE Aerospace to service these engines. The GEnx’s use of advanced carbon-fiber and innovative blade design provides lighter weight, improved durability, and greater efficiency.
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