Delta Air Lines Expands Transatlantic Schedule Amid Strong Travel Demand

Delta Air Lines is operating its largest-ever transatlantic schedule this year, driven by robust travel demand, particularly on international routes.

Senior executives expressed optimism about record-high second-quarter revenue projections due to strong spring and summer travel trends.

Healthy Travel Demand:

CEO Ed Bastian highlighted the healthy demand for summer travel, noting that international demand is outpacing domestic growth. Delta is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, especially with its global partnerships.

Post-pandemic, consumers are prioritizing spending on travel experiences. This shift has particularly benefited carriers like Delta, which sees strong demand for premium travel options.

Performance and Competition:

Delta President Glen Hauenstein reported continued strength in international business through early summer. Meanwhile, American Airlines indicated excess domestic seat capacity, leading to discounting pressures. U.S. carriers plan to moderate capacity in the second half of the year to maintain pricing power.

Delta operates a mixed fleet, including aircraft from Airbus and Boeing. Despite Boeing’s ongoing quality and corporate challenges, Delta remains committed to its order for Boeing 737 MAX 10 jets, scheduled for delivery next year.

Boeing 737 MAX 10 Certification:

Boeing’s largest narrowbody jet, the MAX 10, is awaiting certification by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Recent incidents, such as a mid-air cabin panel blowout on an Alaska Airlines MAX 9 flight, have raised concerns about the certification process.

Delta’s Position on Boeing MAX 10:

Despite these challenges, Delta is encouraged by Boeing’s management changes and other adjustments. Bastian expressed confidence in Boeing’s improvements and affirmed Delta’s commitment to the MAX 10 order.

While some airlines, like United, have adjusted their orders, Delta has no plans to swap the MAX 10 for another model.