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Delta Air Lines has made a major step towards its medium-haul fleet renewal by ordering 100 Airbus A321neo aircraft.
These particular examples are Airbus Cabin Flex (ACF) configuration, powered by Pratt & Whitney PW1133G-JM engines.
“This is the right transaction at the right time for our customers, our employees and our shareholders,” said Delta CEO Ed Bastian.
This is a major blow for Boeing, who would have preferred to retain Delta as a customer in this market. However, the Atlanta-based carrier has already placed orders for 117 A321ceo aircraft, and also operates a fleet for A319 and A320 aircraft.
The additions will ultimately be used to replace older types in the fleet, including McDonnell Douglas MD-88 aircraft.
The A321neo ACF introduces new door and fuselage enhancements allows airlines to make best use of the cabin space with a range of up to 4,000 nautical miles. The A321 is the largest member of the A320 Family, seating up to 240 passengers.
Most of Delta’s A321neos will be delivered from the Airbus U.S. Manufacturing Facility in Mobile, Alabama. The airline has taken delivery of 13 U.S.-manufactured Airbus aircraft since last year. In addition, the 50th aircraft to be produced by the Airbus U.S. Manufacturing Facility will be delivered to Delta later this week. The Mobile factory produces four aircraft per month for delivery to Airbus’ U.S. customers. Plans for further production ramp up are currently being discussed.
