Delta Ditches Aging Boeing Jets for New Airbus Charters

Delta Air Lines has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321neo in a charter configuration. This marks the beginning of a gradual replacement for the aging Boeing 757-200 fleet, which has been transporting sports teams and other VIP charters since 2015.

The new aircraft, N701DH, is one of 14 custom-built planes leased from SMBC Aviation Capital and will be dedicated to NBA charters. The plane features a total of 90 seats across three seating types: 16 lie-flat beds, 44 extra legroom seats, and 30 main cabin seats.

The A321neo's arrival is part of Delta's effort to upgrade its narrowbody strategy with more fuel-efficient, quieter aircraft. Over the next three years, the remaining Boeing 757-200s will be phased out as the new Airbus planes take their place in the VIP charter fleet.