Delta Airlines orders 31 additional Airbus widebody airliners

US carrier Delta Airlines has placed an order with Airbus for 31 additional widebody airlines as it looks to grow its fleet.

The order consists of 16 A330-900s and 15 A360-900s which will serve Delta’s expanding long-haul markets.

Delta’s fleet of all Airbus aircraft ranges from the single aisle A220 and A320 family of aircraft through to the A350-1000 and it has a backlog with the European OEM of 200 aircraft.

“As we grow our international footprint and prepare our fleet to serve expanded long-haul markets, these aircraft will enhance our capabilities and elevate our premium offerings,” said Ed Bastian, Chief Executive Officer. “We value our long-standing partnership with Airbus, and with these widebody aircraft we will see additional operational efficiencies and long-term cost benefits in the years to come.”

“Delta’s renewed confidence in both the A330neo and the A350 is a testament to our enduring partnership and the excellence of the Airbus widebody family performance,” added Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. “These aircraft offer the range, capacity, and premium cabin experience Delta requires to grow into new markets and connect more of the world.”

The A330-900 is powered by British Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines and can fly up to 8,100 nautical miles with a 25% reduction in fuel burn compared to the previous generation. Delta’s A350s are also powered by Rolls-Royce engines and can fly up to 9,700nm.

Both aircraft are built with wings made in the UK at Airbus’ wing production facility at Broughton, North Wales.

All Airbus airlines are also able to operate on up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend with the European OEM aiming to increase that to 100% by 2030.