Delta has ordered 20 of Airbus’ A350-1000 aircraft, the largest variant in the A350 family. The Atlanta-based carrier also has options for 20 additional widebody aircraft.
The new aircraft will join Delta’s current fleet of 28 A350-900s. With deliveries slated to start in 2026, the A350-1000 will be a new type in the airline’s fleet.
“The A350-1000 will be the largest, most capable aircraft in Delta’s fleet and is an important step forward for our international expansion,” said Delta’s Chief Executive Officer Ed Bastian in a press release.
According to Delta, the larger aircraft will see roughly 15% more premium seats than other retiring aircraft. In addition, the airline’s A350-1000 will be powered by Rolls-Royce’s Trent XWB-97 engines, a more powerful version of the engine that operates on the A350-900.
“The aircraft complements our fleet and offers an elevated customer experience, with more premium seats and best-in-class amenities, as well as expanded cargo capabilities,” Bastian added.
The A350-1000 has a range of 8,700 nautical miles, roughly 600 more nautical miles than its smaller -900 counterpart. The airline says it plans to use the new aircraft type “in long-haul markets and international hubs in support of Delta’s international expansion, replacing retiring planes and fueling growth.”
