Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian revealed plans to replace one-third of the airline’s mainline fleet within five years during a J.P. Morgan conference, with a focus on retiring 200 Boeing 757 and 767 aircraft. The announcement coincided with a 2018 photo of a Delta Boeing 737-800, highlighting the aging fleet context.
Bastian emphasized that fleet modernization efforts would not alter Delta’s capital expenditure guidance, setting up competition between U.S. manufacturer Boeing Co and European rival Airbus SE. Boeing is proposing a New Midsize Aircraft (NMA) to replace the retired models, while Airbus is advancing an upgraded A321 variant for the same market segment.
Delta is in early discussions with Boeing about the NMA, with Bastian stating, "Hopefully they’ll decide to go" on the project. However, the airline called potential Alitalia investments "too early," noting proposed figures exceed its current consideration range. Italy’s state railway operator Ferrovie dello Stato recently initiated talks with Delta and easyJet to develop a rescue plan for the struggling carrier.
Bastian defended the strategic value of foreign investments, stating direct stakes allow greater influence over carrier strategies. "By making an investment into these businesses we can get actually inside the board room and help to start shape the strategy," he said. Delta’s shares rose 1.7% to $49.62 during midday trading.
