Industry United orders 270 Airbus and Boeing aircraft

As largest combined order in the airline´s history, United Airlines has signed purchase deals with manufacturers Airbus and Boeing that will see 270 aircraft joining the carrier´s fleet over the next years.

Over the course of the airline´s “United Next” plan, the carrier will modernize its fleet and will make it more environmentally friendly with efficient state-of-the-art aircraft. Furthermore, maintenance costs could be lowered as fleet harmonization is being brought forward.

The deal includes 70 Airbus A321 NEOS, 50 Boeing 737 MAX 8s as well as 150 MAX 10s. All Aircraft feature modern cabins and are fuel efficient through their engines. Deliveries for the MAX 10 and A321 NEO aircraft are planned for early 2023.

Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International, said: “Such a significant order from a great airline like United underscores that the A321neo offers unmatched capabilities, operating economics, and passenger friendliness […] No other aircraft can do what the A321neo can do, and the Airbus team is most gratified by United’s strong affirmation of its premium status. The A321neo will complement United’s future A321XLR aircraft, together creating a privileged segment on its own.”

"As we look forward to the recovery ahead, we are honored that United has once again chosen the 737 family's performance, efficiency and flexibility to power their growing network. The Boeing team is excited to be building hundreds of these new jets for United and delivering on a landmark agreement that solidifies our future together for the next decades," added Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

United CEO Scott Kirby commented:  "Our United Next vision will revolutionize the experience of flying United as we accelerate our business to meet a resurgence in air travel […] By adding and upgrading this many aircraft so quickly with our new signature interiors, we'll combine friendly, helpful service with the best experience in the sky, all across our premier global network. At the same time, this move underscores the critical role United plays in fueling the broader U.S. economy – we expect the addition of these new aircraft will have a significant economic impact on the communities we serve in terms of job creation, traveler spending and commerce."