Delta and United Airlines, two of the “Big Three” legacy carriers in the United States, are both eyeing the Airbus A350 family of aircraft. Currently, Delta Air Lines is the only airline in North America to operate the A350, specifically the A350-900 model. However, this will soon change as United Airlines has placed an order for 45 A350-1000s, with deliveries expected to begin in 2026.
Key Characteristics of the A350-1000
The A350-1000 is a longer version of the A350-900, with an additional 23 feet in length and a capacity for 40 more passengers. This makes it an attractive option for airlines looking to increase capacity on popular routes without sacrificing operating frequency. The A350-1000 is equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, which provide more power and thrust than the XWB-84 engines used on the A350-900. This allows for efficient climbs even when fully loaded. While the A350-900 has a longer range, the A350-1000 offers improved passenger and cargo capacity.
Many global airlines, such as British Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Qatar Airways, have taken advantage of the A350-1000’s capabilities by using it on high-demand routes from their respective hubs to major international destinations. For example, British Airways operates the A350-1000 on flights from London to New York, while Qatar Airways uses it for flights from Doha to Miami and San Francisco.
Delta’s Plans for the A350-1000
Delta Air Lines, a member of the SkyTeam alliance, will become the first North American carrier to operate the A350-1000. The airline announced its plans in January 2020, placing an order for 20 of the fuel-efficient aircraft with options for 20 more. According to ch-aviation, Delta currently operates 38 A350-900s, with six more expected to join the fleet. The A350-1000 will be the largest aircraft in Delta’s extensive fleet, which also includes various models of Airbus and Boeing aircraft.
Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, sees the A350-1000 as an important step towards the airline’s international expansion, allowing for more premium seats, improved onboard amenities, and increased cargo opportunities. These aircraft will be deployed on long-haul routes from Delta’s international hubs, replacing older planes in the fleet.
Other North American Airlines and the A350-1000
American and United Airlines are the two other major carriers in the United States, but neither currently operate the A350-1000. American Airlines remains committed to an all-Boeing widebody fleet, with four different models currently in operation. However, the airline does have an order for 96 Airbus A321neo and 50 A321XLR aircraft.