Delta Air Lines has announced a firm order for 30 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner aircraft, marking the introduction of the 787 to its widebody fleet. The move is part of a broader strategy to replace aging aircraft with more fuel-efficient models while expanding the airline’s international reach.
The deal, announced on January 13, 2026, complements Delta’s existing order for 100 Boeing 737-10 MAX narrowbody planes.
Fleet Modernization and Efficiency
The 787-10 is expected to be deployed primarily on Transatlantic and South American routes. According to Delta, the aircraft offers 25% better fuel efficiency per seat compared to the older widebody models it will replace.
“Delta is building the fleet for the future, driving operational improvements and providing steady replacements for less efficient, older aircraft in the decade to come,” said CEO Ed Bastian.
The aircraft will be powered by GE Aerospace’s GEnx engines, which utilize carbon-fiber components and an updated blade design to reduce weight and improve durability.
On-Board Experience and Configuration
The new aircraft will feature a higher-gauge cabin configuration with a focus on premium seating. Key features include:
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Delta One Suites: Expanding the airline’s top-tier business class offering.
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Cabin Amenities: Increased counts of Delta Premium Select and Delta Comfort+ seats.
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Technology: Fast, free “Delta Sync” Wi-Fi and over 1,000 hours of in-flight entertainment.
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Passenger Comfort: The 787 design includes larger tint-controlled windows, higher cabin humidity to reduce jet lag, and a quieter engine profile.
Strategic Financial Context
Delta confirmed that the order fits within its previously stated capital expenditure and capacity targets. The airline currently has 232 narrowbody and 54 widebody aircraft on order for delivery over the next several years.
This order is a significant win for Boeing and U.S. manufacturing, as both the airframe and the GE engines are produced in the United States. It also adds diversity to Delta’s long-haul fleet, which has recently leaned heavily toward Airbus models like the A350 and A330neo.
