Delta A321neo Deal Continues Trend Of U.S. Airlines Boosting Narrowbody Order Books

摘要

Delta Air Lines’ decision to up its Airbus A321neo order book by 30 aircraft reflectsa larger trend among U.S. carriers that are working to ensure they have optimal fleetflexibility to drive cost and efficiency advantages as the recovery from the COVID-19pandemic could turn more uncertain.The latest order follows the exercise of 25 A321neo options by Delta in April andbrings its total orders for the next-generation narrowbody to 155. Referencing the Aprilmove during its second-quarter earnings call in July, CEO Ed Bastian said the A321neooffers the lowest seat cost in its fleet “and will strengthen Delta’s gauge advantagerelative to our competitors.”The airline added that its aircraft