Delta Don’t Fly Boeing 787 Because of Unbuilt 797, Why?

ATLANTA— Delta Air Lines (DL) has made a significant pivot in its widebody fleet strategy, moving away from the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and opting for the Airbus A350 family. Based at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Delta has solidified this shift by placing a recent order for the A350-1000 aircraft.

Originally, Delta had inherited an order for Boeing 787-8s through its merger with Northwest Airlines in 2008; however, this order was ultimately canceled. The airline has since dedicated itself to an all-Airbus widebody strategy, while still relying on an aging Boeing 767 fleet as an interim solution.

Delta Walks Away from Boeing 787

Delta Air Lines initially aimed to operate the Boeing 787-8 after taking over Northwest Airlines’ 2005 order for 18 aircraft. Although the order was deferred, it was officially canceled in 2016.

Delta has stated that this decision aligns with its strategy to enhance fleet efficiency and reduce costs.

At that point, Delta had already demonstrated a preference for the Airbus A350-900, recognized for its efficiency and extended range.

The airline opted for the A350 over the Boeing 787-9 in 2014, citing performance and cost advantages. This represented a major transition in Delta’s procurement approach, which had historically favored Boeing aircraft, as reported by Simple Flying.

Airbus Takes the Lead in Delta’s Widebody Fleet

Currently, Delta’s widebody fleet comprises the Airbus A330 and the Airbus A350-900 (A359), with a total of 20 A350-1000s on order.

These aircraft will facilitate Delta’s ability to expand or resume ultra-long-haul services, including routes to destinations such as India.

Delta’s Big Aircraft Breakdown:

Aircraft Type	Variants	In-Service Units	Avg. Age
Airbus A330	-200, -300, -900	67	10.9 yrs
Airbus A350	-900, -1000 (on order)	32 (+20 on order)	5.1 yrs
Boeing 767	-300, -400	60	26.8 yrs
Boeing 757 (Single-aisle)	-200, -300	113	26.9 yrs

Delta has also retired its Boeing 747 and 777 fleets and currently has no plans to introduce the 787 in the near future. However, there are discussions suggesting potential interest in a new order for Boeing 787.

Why the Airbus A350 Was the Better Fit

The Airbus A350 family, particularly the A350-1000, provides substantial range (8,700 nautical miles), reduced fuel consumption, and high passenger capacity—all of which align with Delta’s global objectives. The A350-1000 can accommodate up to 410 passengers in a typical three-class configuration and offers a 25% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to older twin-aisle models.

Delta’s decision was also influenced by Airbus’ innovative use of advanced materials, including carbon-fiber reinforced plastic, and its superior aerodynamics. Conversely, the Boeing 787-8 did not satisfy Delta’s size and range specifications, particularly in terms of replacing the older 767-300ER on transatlantic routes.

Delta Waited for the Unbuilt 797

While Delta emphasizes its commitment to Airbus for widebodies, it still operates 60 Boeing 767s, which are essential for medium and long-haul services to Europe and South America.

Delta had anticipated the launch of the Boeing 797 to serve as a replacement for the older 767 models, but that proposal has yet to come to fruition.

This situation limits Delta’s opportunities for a compact widebody, narrowing options down to the Airbus A330-800neo or the Boeing 787-8. Without any replacement ordered, Delta may soon find itself in a position where action is necessary, especially as the existing 767 fleet approaches its retirement phase.

Will Delta Order the A321XLR or a Small Widebody?

As of now, Delta has not placed orders for the Airbus A321LR or A321XLR aircraft, despite their potential suitability to replace the aging 757s and cater to thinner long-haul routes.

With the retirement of its 767-300ERs approaching, it seems plausible that Delta will soon order small widebodies or long-range narrowbodies.

While Delta’s long-term strategy seems to favor Airbus, it remains uncertain whether the same commitment will be extended to the small widebody market.

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