American Airlines has announced a blockbuster new aircraft order, from not one but three different manufacturers.
A total of 260 new jets are on the way, in a deal worth billions of dollars. But which planes has it selected and what does this tell us about the future direction of the Dallas-based carrier?
Boeing 737 Max: 85 Ordered Plus Conversions
American is doubling down on the Boeing 737 Max. The airline has confirmed an additional 85 of the type will be joining its fleet, complementing existing orders for 70 units.
manufacturer will supply the new planes in a two-class setup, with a total of 76 seats. The airline is in the process of retiring its 50-seater single-class regional jets, with all of these expected to leave the fleet by the end of the decade.
Alongside the premium seating, the new E175s will be equipped with high-speed satellite Wi-Fi and in-seat power.
Devon May, American’s Chief Financial Officer described Monday’s order as a “balanced level of capital investment,” providing a “steady stream of new aircraft” over the coming decade.
Even with this latest announcement, the airline says it expects to remain within its previously announced guidance for capacity and capital expenditure. The company now has 440 aircraft on order.
With American’s narrowbody strategy now clear, industry attention will likely turn to its widebody and long-haul fleet. Only Airbus and Boeing are in the race; will they split the spoils or could one manufacturer sweep the board?