The Atlanta-based carrier announced they have a firm order for 100 737 MAX-10 aircraft with options for 30 more at the Farnborough International Airshow 2022.
Boeing 737 MAX Order Part of Fleet Renewal as Air Travel Demand Returns
Although Delta has been loyal to the Airbus A321neo, rumors began to swirl about a potential 737 MAX purchase in March 2022. While the carrier did not formally comment at the time, chief executive Ed Bastian did tell a seminar that the company could “figure out how to bring them [the 737 MAX-10] in.”
Under the agreement, Delta will receive the first 737 MAX-10 in 2025. The largest variant of the narrow-body aircraft will be powered by the CFM LEAP-1B engine, which is reported to be up to 30% more fuel efficient than the retiring aircraft. As is customary with aircraft deals, the price Delta is paying was not disclosed.
The airline says the MAX-10 fits into their long-term strategic plans on multiple levels. The larger aircraft will be able to accommodate more passengers than the retiring airframes. In addition, the airline says adding another 737-type aircraft will simplify pilot training. Combined with their A321neo orders, Delta says adding the newest generation 737s will help their goals to be more environmentally sustainable over time.
When integrated into the fleet, the 737 MAX-10 will feature 20 first class seats, 33 Delta Comfort+ seats, and 129 economy seats. Each aircraft will be outfitted with power outlets at each seat and on-demand in-flight entertainment through Delta Studio.
“The Boeing 737-10 will be an important addition to Delta’s fleet as we shape a more sustainable future for air travel, with an elevated customer experience, improved fuel efficiency and best-in-class performance,” Bastian said in a press release. “These new aircraft provide superior operating economics and network flexibility, and the agreement reflects our prudent approach to deploying our capital.”
Once the new aircraft are delivered, Delta’s total fleet will exceed over 300 airframes. However, the 737 fleet will still be the second-largest aircraft type in the airline, trailing behind the Airbus A320 family.
New Airframes Part of Larger Investment Strategy
The new aircraft is just one part of Delta’s latest investment strategy as the demand for aviation returns. Alongside upgrades in Delta Sky Clubs and facilities in New York, Los Angeles, Seattle and Salt Lake City, the company is planning to buy back up to $1.5 billion in notes due between 2023 and 2026, including the “SkyMiles Notes” backed by their loyalty program.
Feature image courtesy: Delta Air Lines
Source: frugal travel guy