Delta to Introduce Airbus A321neos Equipped with 44 First Class Seats Shortly

In the upcoming months, Delta Air Lines is set to launch a new Airbus A321neo layout that includes 44 first class seats, 54 extra legroom economy seats, and 66 standard economy seats. This layout serves as a temporary measure due to certification challenges related to the planned business class seats. Delta has received these aircraft but is unable to operate them as intended, prompting the temporary installation of additional premium economy or first class seats instead of the business class seats. This approach enables Delta to make use of the planes rather than leaving them in expensive storage. The altered aircraft are anticipated to commence service in the summer of 2026, mainly on transcontinental routes from Atlanta to Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and Seattle. Delta’s VP of Customer Experience Design, Mauricio Parise, mentioned that this innovative solution guarantees customers access to new aircraft during the summer travel period. The schedule for the planned interiors remains unclear, potentially extending to 2028.