We’ve talked a lot about the steps we’re taking to continue improving the products and services we offer customers, to retire less efficient aircraft and maintain capacity discipline by continuing to right-size our fleet and network to match customer demand. As part of our work with the Delta pilots, we are making a major strategic shift in our mainline fleet – once again leading the industry. It is time to complete the dramatic reduction of 50-seat RJs and significantly increase and upgrade our mainline fleet.
First, we’ve reached an agreement in principle with Southwest Airlines and Boeing – to lease 88 Boeing 717 aircraft for the mainline that will replace inefficient 50-seat RJs. The Boeing 717 aircraft will be extensively refurbished, with new seats, galleys, in-flight Wi-Fi and cabin upgrades. Once refurbished, the aircraft will seat 110 passengers with 12 first class seats, 15 Economy Comfort seats and 83 economy seats. These aircraft will give our high value customers even more opportunities to upgrade to first class and Economy Comfort seats, extending our industry leading position as the U.S. airline with the most first class seats.
Second, Delta will increase the two-class 76 seat regional jet fleet by 70 airplanes, which will increase our total large RJ fleet from 255 to 325.
"agreement in principle" only right now....