[quote=Bucking Bar;230687]That is not surprising. Wonder if the growth for this size flying was based on the availability of a less expensive option to perform 737-800 type flying,
Yes, I believe so. Delta has needed more mainline lift for some time. There are many city pairs that we could use larger AC (not RJs). The MD-90s where a very inexpensive way to achieve this. We have training,parts and mainenance in place which would make it cheeper to operate (economies of scale).
Delta will take delivery of 10 737-700 in the next couple of years and according to the Boeing website we have 44 737-800 on option. Boeing is supposedly working on the 737 replacement-a mini 787. It would make sense if you're going to operate the 787 that you would want this AC to compliment the fleet- long term.