Originally Posted by
Flytolive
It is amazing to me that DAL is not able to operate A350s on LAX-SYD when UAL has done it with 747s, 777s, & 787s. Must be an ETOPS authorization issue.
It's not an ETOPS issue as Delta routinely runs 180 min ETOPS on its Pacific A350 legs. It's an A350 issue.
306 passengers plus cargo plus fuel (to include the 450 mile away Brisbane alternate) puts you over the max T.O. weight. I believe Delta is looking into having Airbus increase the max TO weight so they can fly this route...all for a small fee, of course.