Delta Air Lines has chosen Airbus to meet its needs for modern efficient widebodies having placed a first order for 20 A350-1000 aircraft. The A350-1000, the wings of which will be made at Broughton, will be a new aircraft type in Delta’s fleet.
And Taiwan’s EVA Air has finalised a firm order with Airbus for the purchase of 18 long-range A350-1000s and 15 single-aisle A321neo.
Christian Scherer, chief executive officer of the Commercial Aircraft business, Airbus, said: “We are thankful for Delta’s continued confidence in Airbus’ solutions to meet its fleet needs.
“Delta was the first U.S. airline to operate the A350-900, and is doing so with great success. Delta now welcomes the A350-1000, which will open even more opportunities for the airline and its customers.
“We are proud that our aircraft serve the entirety of Delta’s impressive global network as this stellar airline takes fleet efficiency to the next level.”
Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, said: “The A350-1000 will be the largest, most capable aircraft in Delta’s fleet and is an important step forward for our international expansion.
“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.”
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Clay Sun, president of EVA Air, said: “We have selected the Airbus aircraft following a thorough evaluation of the various models in each market segment. In both size categories we have selected the most modern and fuel efficient types, that offer the highest levels of passenger comfort.
“The aircraft also bring significant reductions in carbon emissions, which is in line with our company’s sustainability goals. For long-range operations the A350-1000 sets new standards in its class and will allow us to offer our passengers the best possible in-flight experience.”
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales, Commercial Aircraft, said: “This order marks a new phase in our relationship with EVA Air and we thank the airline for its confidence in Airbus. In the long range market, it’s another major endorsement for the A350-1000 as the natural replacement for previous generation aircraft in the larger widebody size category.
“The A350 is setting new standards across the board in terms of range, payload, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, while making an immediate contribution to reduced carbon emissions.”
“We also thank EVA for reaffirming its commitment to the latest generation Airbus single aisle family with its first direct purchase of the A321neo and we look forward to working closely with the airline as it prepares for its new Airbus fleet.”
The A350 has more than 1,206 orders from 58 customers from around the world.
