Delta Air Lines has placed a firm order for 31 additional Airbus widebody aircraft, comprising 16 A330-900s and 15 A350-900s. The agreement was announced in Toulouse on 28 January 2026.

 

Once delivered, the order will expand Delta’s widebody fleet to 55 A330neo aircraft and 79 A350s, supporting the airline’s long-haul growth strategy.

 

Supporting long-haul expansion

Delta stated that the new aircraft will play a role in strengthening its international network and supporting expanded long-haul operations. The airline cited enhanced operational capabilities, improvements to premium offerings, and long-term efficiency gains as key factors behind the order.

 

The agreement builds on Delta’s long-standing relationship with Airbus. According to Airbus, the A330neo and A350 families provide the range, capacity and cabin features required to support network growth and new market development.

 

A330neo and A350 capabilities

The A330-900 is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines and is designed to fly up to 8,100 nautical miles (15,000 kilometres) non-stop. Compared with previous-generation competitor aircraft, it offers a 25 per cent reduction in fuel burn, carbon dioxide emissions and operating costs.

 

The A350 is designed for missions of up to 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 kilometres) and incorporates advanced aerodynamics, lightweight materials and latest-generation Rolls-Royce engines. Airbus states that these features deliver a 25 per cent advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and COâ‚‚ emissions compared with earlier-generation competitor aircraft.

Both aircraft types feature Airbus’ Airspace cabin, offering modern in-flight products aimed at improving comfort for passengers and crews.

 

Fleet context and sustainability

Delta currently operates more than 500 Airbus aircraft across all Airbus product families, ranging from the A220 to the A350-900. The airline’s existing Airbus backlog stands at around 200 aircraft and includes the A350-1000.

 

The A330neo and A350 are certified to operate with up to 50 per cent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus has stated its objective for all its aircraft to be capable of operating with up to 100 per cent SAF by 2030.

 

As of the end of December 2025, the A350 Family had recorded more than 1,500 orders from 67 customers worldwide, while the A330 Family had accumulated over 1,900 orders.