Delta Air Lines has placed an order for 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliner widebody aircraft. The 787 will be a new fleet type for Delta and complements a previous order for 100 Boeing 737-10 MAX aircraft.  

Ed Bastian, CEO, said, “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.”

This order represents the next step in Delta’s international evolution, according to an announcement, broadening its global reach and building on a strong foundation for international growth supported by Delta’s domestic network and joint venture partnerships in every region of the world. Delta is expecting to operate the largest international schedule in its history this year. 

The new planes, said the announcement, are an ideal addition to Delta’s transatlantic and South American network, offering 25% better fuel efficiency per seat, more capacity, larger premium cabins and enhanced cargo capability compared with the previous generation widebody aircraft it will replace. 

The 787’s wide, spacious and quiet cabin with large, tint-controlled windows and spacious overhead storage bins, said the announcement, will provide customers a premium, world-class experience on international flights. The aircraft can climb to higher altitudes, offering smoother flights. An improved engine design as well as other fuselage technologies reduce noise for a quieter flight experience, according to the announcement. 

The new aircraft will feature more premium seats. They will also offer more than 1,000 hours of free inflight entertainment; fast, free Delta Sync WiFi; and premium food and beverage options. 

With the new commitments, Delta has 232 narrowbody and 54 widebody aircraft on order for delivery in coming years.