Delta’s order for the A350-1000 is part of its broader strategy to refresh and streamline its fleet while improving fuel efficiency. The airline expects these new aircraft to be over 20% more fuel efficient than the retiring Boeing 767-300ERs. The larger capacity will allow Delta to serve slot-limited airports like London-Heathrow more effectively and open or resume ultra-long-haul routes such as Atlanta or New York-JFK to India—routes beyond the range of its current widebody fleet.

United Airlines also has an outstanding order for Airbus A350-900s but does not expect delivery until at least 2030. United originally ordered both -900 and -1000 variants but shifted plans multiple times due to changing needs and delivery schedules, ultimately settling on delayed -900 deliveries.

American Airlines previously inherited an order for A350s through its merger with US Airways but canceled it in favor of fleet simplification focused on Boeing models. Hawaiian Airlines initially ordered the smaller A350-800 variant before converting those orders first to A330neos and later switching entirely to Boeing 787-9s.

With no other U.S.-based carriers set to take delivery of the A350-1000 or showing interest in ordering competing large aircraft like the upcoming Boeing 777X, Delta will be unique among American airlines operating this model. Globally, leading operators include Qatar Airways, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Japan Airlines.

When introduced into service by Delta, the A350-1000 will become not only its largest and longest-range aircraft but also one of the largest passenger jets operated by any U.S.-based carrier since United took delivery of its last Boeing 777-300ER in 2020.

"Delta stated that this was part of its efforts to refresh and streamline its fleet, while also improving fuel efficiency."

"Delta claims the new A350-1000s will be over 20% more fuel efficient than the retiring Boeing 767-300ERs."

"With a maximum seating capacity of up to 480 passengers, the A350-1000 is currently (but briefly) the largest commercial passenger aircraft in serial production."

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