Boeing

The Boeing Company has established firm delivery dates for 25 aircraft in 1999 and 2000 to support Delta Air Lines' ongoing plans for fleet modernization and modest growth. These previously exercised options and incremental orders became firm during the period June to December 1998 and include 14 Next-Generation 737-800s, eight 757-200s and three 767-300 ERs (extended range).

Boeing also confirmed 24 orders previously announced by Delta. These include 16 737-800s, six 757-200s and two 777-200ERs. The airline said the new aircraft will replace aircraft being retired from its fleet and allow disciplined capacity growth.

Earlier this year, Delta announced plans to accelerate retirement of its Boeing 727 aircraft. Under this retirement schedule, the 737-800s will replace the last of Delta's workhorse Boeing 727s in 2005. The 767s will replace the airline's retiring L-1011s.

Today's announcement underscores Delta's objectives of fleet simplification and efficiency. By replacing older aircraft, Delta expects to significantly improve customer satisfaction and reliability, and also create significant economic benefit in reduced training, maintenance and scheduling expenses.