Delta international 747 drawdown enters final chapter

Delta Air Lines begins the final chapter in the drawdown of its international Boeing 747-400 fleet with the introduction of the Airbus A350-900 Monday The new Airbus aircraft enters service operating flight DL275 from Detroit to Tokyo Narita. A 747 operated the flight the previous day. "The A350 is a significant step forward for us into the international competitiveness of our product and service," said Ed Bastian, CE of Delta, earlier in October. The A350 has Delta's latest premium product, its business class suites, and new premium economy cabin in a 306-seat configuration - 70 seats fewer than on the 747 Airline executives have also touted the A350's efficiency and range gains over the 747 that will "meaningfully enhance", as Delta president Glen Hauenstein said, the profitability of its Pacific segment going forward. <br/>