United Airlines has announced plans to take delivery of more than 250 aircraft by April 2028 as part of its ongoing fleet modernisation programme.

The airline stated that the deliveries will include a mix of narrowbody and widebody aircraft, supporting both fleet renewal and network development.

FLEET COMPOSITION AND DEPLOYMENT

According to the company, the aircraft on order include Airbus A321neo and A321XLR aircraft, Boeing 737 MAX variants, and Boeing 787-9 aircraft with updated cabin interiors.

United indicated that the Airbus A321XLR aircraft are expected to replace Boeing 757 aircraft on selected international routes, while also enabling additional long-range narrowbody operations.

The Airbus A321neo aircraft will be deployed on high-demand domestic routes, including transcontinental services.

PREMIUM CONFIGURATION STRATEGY

The airline stated that the new aircraft will feature increased premium seating as part of a broader cabin configuration strategy.

According to the company, certain narrowbody aircraft will incorporate lie-flat seating typically associated with widebody operations, particularly on transcontinental routes.

REGIONAL FLEET ADJUSTMENTS

United also confirmed the introduction of a reconfigured regional aircraft, the CRJ450, intended to support operations in smaller markets through its hub network.

The aircraft will include a revised cabin layout, including a United First section.

WIDEBODY FLEET DEVELOPMENT

The airline has begun introducing Boeing 787-9 aircraft with updated interiors across its international network. These aircraft are expected to enter service from April 2026.

According to United, the programme forms part of its broader effort to standardise cabin products and align fleet capability with operational requirements.

ONGOING FLEET PROGRAMME

United stated that its fleet expansion and retrofit initiatives have been underway since 2021, with continued deliveries planned through 2028.

The airline indicated that the programme is intended to support network growth while improving operational consistency across its fleet.