Delta Air Lines Orders up to 60 Boeing 787 Dreamliners to Grow, Modernize Widebody Fleet

Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Delta Air Lines announced the U.S. carrier placed its first direct order for up to 60 787 Dreamliners to support long-haul international growth and renew the airline's widebody fleet.

Officials said Delta's purchase of 30 787-10 jets – with opportunity for up to 30 more of the largest 787 variant – will enable the airline's expansion and modernization plans on high-demand transatlantic and South American routes.

Boeing South Carolina is the home of the 787 Dreamliner, where the full cycle of Dreamliner production happens.

Teammates fabricate, assemble and deliver the 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 to customers all over the world.

"Delta is building the fleet for the future, enhancing the customer experience, driving operational improvements and providing steady replacements for less efficient, older aircraft in the decade to come," said Ed Bastian, Delta's chief executive officer.

Bastian added, "Most importantly, these aircraft will be operated by the best aviation professionals in the industry, providing Delta's welcoming, elevated and caring service to travelers worldwide."

With capacity for up to 336 passengers and 25 percent lower fuel use than the airplanes it replaces, the 787-10 offers the lowest operating cost per seat of any widebody airplane.

"We are excited that Delta Air Lines has selected the 787-10 to join its fleet of the future. The 787 Dreamliner's unmatched efficiency, range, and passenger comfort make it a perfect fit for Delta's international expansion and fleet modernization," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

With more than 460 Boeing airplanes currently in service, Delta has flown most Boeing single-aisle and widebody models across its domestic and international networks over the decades.

Officials said this new widebody order further strengthens that partnership and supports U.S. aerospace manufacturing jobs across Boeing's production system and supply chain.

The purchase brings Delta's firm order book to 130 Boeing airplanes, including the airline's order for 100 737-10 jets.