ATLANTA- Delta Air Lines (DL) is preparing to launch a premium-heavy version of its Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, with the first deliveries expected in 2026 or possibly delayed to 2027, according to aviation insider JonNYC.
These widebody jets are planned to feature brand new Delta One Suites in business class, along with refreshed economy seating.
The aircraft will serve key international routes out of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), marking a strategic move by Delta to stay competitive with American (AA) and United (UA) in the evolving premium cabin race.
Delta A350-1000 Business Class
Delta’s upcoming A350-1000s are part of a 20-aircraft firm order placed 18 months ago, with options for 20 more. The delivery is scheduled to span 28 months, bringing substantial enhancements to Delta’s long-haul fleet.
The airline plans to debut a completely redesigned Delta One Suite, further differentiating itself in the premium travel segment.
Delta was an early innovator in business class, being the first US carrier to offer suites with sliding doors, introduced on earlier A350-900s. However, the Thompson Vantage XL seat used in those aircraft has since been outclassed by more modern offerings from competitors.
The new Delta One Suite is expected to address those shortcomings with improved privacy, storage, and comfort, vital factors for long-haul travelers.
The A350-1000s will also feature redesigned economy seats, aiming to elevate the overall passenger experience across all cabin classes.
While the exact seat configuration is not yet public, industry expectations are high given Delta’s focus on premium-heavy layouts and customer experience.
Competitive Pressure
American Airlines (AA), operating out of Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), has introduced its latest Boeing 787-9 aircraft with Adient Ascent business class seats – a spacious, fully lie-flat product with high-end finishes.
United Airlines (UA), flying primarily from hubs like Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), has also announced similar high-end seating for its incoming 787 fleet.
In contrast, Delta’s aging Boeing 767s remain among the least competitive long-haul products offered by any US or European legacy carrier.
Reported by View From The Wing, Delta risks falling behind unless its newest product delivers a significant leap forward.
Delta is also investing in the ground experience, expanding its network of Delta One lounges in key international gateways. The airline is improving its soft product, enhancing onboard amenities like wine selection and bedding.
Though still trailing United in some service aspects, these upgrades reflect Delta’s commitment to premium travel.
Despite these developments, Delta currently has no announced plans to retrofit its existing widebody fleet with the new Delta One Suite, meaning the upgraded experience will be exclusive to the new A350-1000s for the foreseeable future.
Looking Ahead
With the first A350-1000 expected by 2026–2027, Delta is positioning itself to compete aggressively in the high-stakes business class market.
The success of these new aircraft will depend not only on the quality of the seats but also on Delta’s ability to integrate the new product seamlessly across its most important international routes.
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