Delta Air Lines’ choice of Airbus over Boeing shaped by history but may change soon

Delta reportedly recognized these trends before high-profile incidents like the MAX crisis of 2019 and opted instead for Airbus products, which it viewed as reliable alternatives. While both the Dreamliner and A350 have performed well overall, some quality questions have persisted at Boeing.

Another factor is fleet commonality. By standardizing on Airbus widebodies—the A330neo and A350—Delta can reduce training time for pilots moving between types and streamline maintenance operations due to shared systems across models. This strategy helps control costs related to crew management and technical support.

Aircraft size also played a role in Delta’s decision-making process. The airline found that neither very large nor very small widebodies suited its needs: “the Airbus A350-900 was considered just the right size for Delta.” Meanwhile, the A330neo provided an optimal replacement for aging Boeing 767s on medium-to-long-haul routes. U.S.-based airlines have generally moved away from ultra-large jets such as the Boeing 747-8i or Airbus A380.

Recent reports suggest that this approach could be changing. According to information from within Delta cited by Simple Flying, there may soon be an order for Boeing’s largest Dreamliner variant, the 787-10—a shift from Delta’s exclusive focus on Airbus widebodies since the last decade. However, no deal has been finalized yet.

The possible move comes as Delta faces decisions about replacing its aging fleet of Boeing 767s by around 2030. Multiple aircraft types—including various Airbuses—are being considered for different route profiles based on range and capacity needs.

Past tensions between Delta and Boeing may also have influenced procurement choices. When Delta became a launch customer for Bombardier’s CSeries (now known as the Airbus A220), it secured favorable pricing while helping keep Bombardier afloat; Boeing responded by filing a trade complaint against Bombardier and challenging Delta’s purchase terms.

Today, relationships between manufacturers and airlines continue to evolve alongside operational requirements. As noted: “Relationships can mend, new requirements can arise, and calculations can change.” While Delta stands out among major U.S. carriers without any Dreamliners in service or on order so far, industry observers are watching closely for signs that this might soon change—especially as competitors like United place significant orders for both families of next-generation widebodies.