Delta Air Lines is gearing up for a sizable order for the Boeing 737 MAX. The operator is in discussions for up to 100 units of the MAX 10, a model that is currently going through certification deadline concerns.

Ongoing talks

Modern discussions between Delta and Boeing about the 737 MAX date back to November 2020, when Delta CEO Ed Bastian made comments about the aircraft. He said if there is an opportunity where his airline would feel comfortable taking on the type, there wouldn't be hesitation. Additionally, there was revived speculation last September when Bastian told pilots there was a place for the MAX if the company could figure out how to bring them in.

Now, the prospects have increased once again, with Reuters reporting that Boeing is in talks with the Atlanta-based carrier for an order of up to 100 MAX 10s. A formal announcement could be made as soon as April according to sources of the publication.

Delta Airlines Aircraft At Sydney Airport Getty
Despite holding several Boeing aircraft, Delta is one of Airbus' largest customers. Photo: Getty Images

Yet to be certified

The certification of the MAX 10 could drag into next year. This factor would force Boeing to update the aircraft's cockpit systems. Boeing states that is currently working with the FAA to provide relevant information and is committed to meeting expectations to achieve the model's certification.

In service, the 737 MAX 10 would hold between 188 and 204 passengers in a two-class configuration. The maximum number of seats available would be 230. It has a range of 3,300 NM (6,110 km) with one auxiliary tank.

Boeing 737 MAX 10 Getty
Photo: Getty Images

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The narrowbody fleet mix

Even though Delta hasn't placed any 737 MAX orders thus far, it does hold previous entries to the 737 series. Notably, one of its 737-800s lost an engine cowling on a domestic flight between New Orleans and Los Angeles last week.

Delta is also a fan of the Airbus A320 family of narrowbodies, holding the A319, A320, and A321. Moreover, it flies the A220, which is also becoming increasingly popular across the industry. Delta's 50+ A220s hold an average age of just over two years between them.

The carrier's first A321neo rolled out of the paint shop earlier this year, with the firm expecting a total of 155 units of the type. The A321neo and 737 MAX 10 are direct competitors, meaning that Delta would be holding two of the major players in this segment. With over 120 757s still in Delta's fleet, the modern narrowbody solutions of both Boeing and Airbus will undoubtedly work well to replace the aging units.

Overall, Delta is continuing to balance its options between Airbus and Boeing. Even if it does go for the 737 MAX, the airline will continue its strong relationship with Airbus, having just announced that it is partnering with the European powerhouse on hydrogen flight projects.

Simple Flying reached out to Boeing and Delta for comment on the potential 737 MAX order. We will update the article with any further announcements from the companies.

What are your thoughts about Delta Air Lines’ prospects with the Boeing 737 MAX? Would an order be a good move for the carrier? Let us know what you think of the aircraft and its potential with the carrier in the comment section.