Delta this week placed its first direct order for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
The airline said Tuesday that it ordered 30 787-10s, the largest Dreamliner variant. Separately, Boeing stated that Delta’s order includes options for up to 30 more 787s, which if exercised, would bring the total order to 60 jets.
Delta officials said the new airplanes will help strengthen and grow international operations, specifically in transatlantic and South American markets.
“Delta is building the fleet for the future, enhancing the customer experience, driving operational improvements, and providing steady replacements for less efficient, older aircraft in the decade to come,” Delta CEO Ed Bastian said in a news release. “Most importantly, these aircraft will be operated by the best aviation professionals in the industry, providing Delta’s welcoming, elevated, and caring service to travelers worldwide.”
The airline selected GEnx engines to power the 787s.
The widebody aircraft will feature Delta One Suites and more Delta Premium Select and Delta Comfort seats, officials said. Delta Sync wireless internet will also be available.
“The 787 Dreamliner’s unmatched efficiency, range, and passenger comfort make it a perfect fit for Delta’s international expansion and fleet modernization,” Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said in a statement. “Our team looks forward to delivering new Dreamliners to Delta and supporting their commitments to provide an exceptional passenger experience and advance sustainability in aviation.”
Delta famously eschewed the 787 for years even as competitors embraced the type. In 2016, it canceled an order for 18 Dreamliners it inherited from its acquisition of Northwest Airlines, citing production delays and quality control problems at Boeing. At the time, Delta was pivoting toward Airbus for its long-haul needs and placing orders for the A330 and A350.
Delta’s order book with Boeing now stands at 130 aircraft. That figure includes commitments for 100 737 MAX jets, finalized in 2022.
