Delta Air Lines has expanded its aircraft order with Boeing, confirming 30 additional 787 Dreamliners and an option for 30 more, alongside its existing 100 Boeing 737-10 MAX order.
The announcement comes as the airline operates its largest-ever international schedule in 2026, reflecting its continued focus on network expansion and fleet renewal.
Deliveries of the new aircraft will begin in 2031 and will introduce a new widebody type to the fleet, which currently includes Airbus A350 aircraft on long-haul routes.
The Boeing 787s will replace the US carrier’s older-generation widebody aircraft, boosting fuel efficiency by 25 per cent per seat while increasing both passenger and cargo capacity.
Although the new B787s won’t operate on Australian routes, they will fly on high-demand transatlantic and South American services, expanding the airline’s international route network reach.
Passengers can expect an upgraded onboard experience, featuring larger premium cabins with more Delta One Suites (already 45% of all Delta One seats fleetwide), Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort, and Main Cabin options, plus larger, tint-controlled windows, more overhead space and quieter cabins.
Advanced aerodynamics and next-generation engines on new B787s will deliver smoother, quieter flights, while allowing the aircraft to climb to higher altitudes for improved comfort and performance.
Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said: “We are 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.”
Boeing Commercial Airplane CEO Stephanie Pope added: “The 787’s unmatched efficiency, range and passenger comfort make it a perfect fit for Delta’s international expansion and fleet modernisation.”
With this latest commitment, DL now has 232 narrowbody and 54 widebody aircraft on order. The expanded order builds on recent milestones, including the airline’s first-ever direct Melbourne–Los Angeles service launched with Airbus A350s.
The US carrier’s record 2026 international schedule includes expanded services across Europe, South America and Asia, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s largest global carriers.
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KARRYON UNPACKS: The expanded Dreamliner order highlights the carrier’s confidence in long-haul travel demand with the B787 aircraft’s efficiency and premium cabin design perfectly aligning with the US airline’s global growth ambitions and offering more passenger options.
