Originally Posted by
jiburi
I find it difficult to believe DL will actually take delivery of this new type. Knowing Northwest's 2005 order for 18 aircrafts with options for 50 more expected in 2008 was repeatedly deferred before cancelling in 2016, I wonder if Delta might be using this pawn to delay everyone else's order, with no intent to taking delivery ever. Ulterior motive?
I won't believe it until we actually see actual 787 dressed in DL colors....in 2031
Jiburi
Then why did Delta just order this plane? Makes no sense. Why they'd order this and then never take delivery barring some cataclysm where they are facing serious financial trouble? Reminder NW's 788 order ended up being toxic given the Dreamliner delays but also, several of the 788s intended for NW were terrible teen aircraft, overweight and under range aircraft that few airlines were interested in. Completely different situation now. Also, Delta did not just order the plane. They secured a deal with GE to service GEn-X engines. Delta TechOps will now be servicing engines from RR/PW/GE/CFM, all of the newest generation engines. Delta is reportedly unhappy with the A339neo's RR Trent performance due to difficulty with crosswind takeoffs, and the delays to where it is taking RR to implement a fix, which is one reason why I doubt they'll order another A339neo aircraft unless Airbus basically gives it them at well below asking prices.