Summary
- United Airlines has received its first Airbus A321neo in over twenty years, signaling a move towards a more fuel-efficient and modern fleet.
- The carrier’s first A321neo operations will give attention to popular tourist routes, providing passengers with updated in-cabin technology and additional cupboard space.
- United Airlines holds 179 outstanding orders for A321neo and A321XLR aircraft, demonstrating a commitment to updating its fleet and enhancing the shopper experience.
Legacy carrier United Airlines has taken delivery of the primary of 180 latest Airbus A321neo aircraft, set to overhaul its short and medium-haul operations because it begins to phase out its oldest A320 and A319 narrowbodies.
Fresh jets
Delivered to the carrier on Thursday, the brand-new A321neo is the primary Airbus jet to be delivered to United Airlines in 21 years. The aircraft will enter service later this yr, operating on United Airlines’ routes from its hub at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).
Early A321neo operations will cover much of United Airlines’ tourist-heavy network, with destinations including Orlando International Airport (MCO), Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), and Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers.
United Airlines’ A321neo fleet will feature Airbus’ Airspace cabin, featuring a spread of updated in-cabin tech to satisfy the needs of today’s passengers, including LED lighting to limit jet lag, upgraded window shades, and extra-large overhead bins, providing 60% more cupboard space. In an announcement shared earlier this month, Airbus CCO Christian Scherer celebrated the delivery, noting its potential to bolster United Airlines’ operations and customer experience. Scherer explained,
Upcoming updates
As of October 2023, United Airlines short and medium-haul fleet is comprised of 74 older A319-100 and 82 A320-200 aircraft, 33 Boeing 737-700, 130 737-800 and 132 737-900, in addition to 63 latest 737 MAX 8 and 76 737 MAX 9. The carrier still holds 374 outstanding orders for the 737 MAX program, including 294 for the as-yet undelivered 737 MAX 10 variant.
Earlier this month, the carrier confirmed it will add 110 latest Boeing and Airbus orders to its backlog, with deliveries set to start in 2028. The amended order will add 60 A321XLRs to its narrowbody fleet and 50 Boeing 787-9s for its long-haul operations. United Airlines has also secured additional purchase rights for 40 more A321neo jets within the late 2020s, adding further capability if required.
Photo: Ryan Fletcher | Shutterstock
The legacy carrier has incessantly praised the fuel efficiency of Airbus’ next-generation A320neo program, with much of its fleet development focused across the A321neo and A321XLR. Though small, the medium-to-long-range aircraft offers a smaller carbon footprint, 20% more fuel savings, and significantly lower maintenance costs than previous A320 generations, slashing operational expenses and emissions for United Airlines.
Scherer added,
Firm delivery dates remain relatively unclear amid growing backlogs for each Airbus and Boeing’s narrowbody programs. The A320 family backlog currently sits at around 7000 aircraft, with the A321neo accounting for 60% of orders. Delivery times have improved through 2023; half-year statistics have put the European aircraft manufacturer’s deliveries at a median of 47 aircraft every month.
What are your thoughts on United Airlines’ latest Airbus A321neo? What routes would you prefer to see the carrier operate the aircraft on? Tell us within the comments.