Delta Air Lines has become the first North American carrier to operate the Airbus A350, advancing its ongoing effort to improve the travel experience and offer innovative products and service to customers.
The 306-seat A350-900 raises the standard for long-haul travel with Delta One suites and a Delta Premium Select cabin. It is the first long-range aircraft to offer next-generation 2Ku internet connectivity. Delta plans to deploy the A350 primarily on trans-Pacific routes, including Tokyo Narita (NRT), Seoul (ICN) and Beijing (PEK).
“The A350 sets a new standard of flying experience for our customers, representing years of product innovation as Delta continues to transform into a leading global carrier,” said Ed Bastian, chief executive officer of Delta. “Our new flagship A350 fits well in Delta’s long-haul network, combining an exceptional customer experience with strong operating economics and fuel efficiency as we retire older, less-efficient aircraft.”
Delta One suites deliver a private, personalized experience. All 32 suites feature full-height doors for enhanced privacy and comfort, full flat-bed seats with direct aisle access, increased personal stowage and large in-flight entertainment screens.
Delta Premium Select provides more personal space, with up to 38 inches of pitch, 19 inches of width and 7 inches of recline, plus an adjustable leg rest and headrest. Passengers in Premium Select also enjoy free seatback HD entertainment, in-seat power at every row, high-capacity overhead bins and next-generation 2Ku internet connectivity.
These cabin improvements are part of Delta’s multibillion-dollar investment in the customer experience. The airline’s cabin modernization program includes new seats, seatback entertainment with free content, high-capacity overhead bins, WiFi on all flights, free Main Cabin meals on select routes, upgraded Main Cabin snacks, chef-curated Delta One meals, a seasonal wine program and premium serviceware designed by Alessi for Delta One and first class.
The long-range A350 will serve routes between the United States and Asia. With a lightweight airframe and fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the A350 delivers about a 20 percent improvement in operating cost per seat compared with the Boeing 747-400, helping Delta reduce fuel use and operating expenses while offering a modern passenger experience.