Delta in talks to defer 40 Airbus jet deliveries beyond 2020

Delta is in talks with Airbus to delay at least 40 aircraft deliveries set for this year, as the carrier grapples with a travel market stricken by the coronavirus pandemic, said people familiar with the matter. At the same time, Delta plans to bolster its cash stockpile by raising $750 million from a sale-leaseback deal for nine of the remaining Airbus jetliners scheduled to be handed over, said the people, who asked not to be named because the discussions are private. The two transactions aren’t linked, meaning one could get done without the other, they said. The financing involves five Airbus A321 planes, two A350 aircraft and two A330neo jets, the people said. Both deals follow through on Delta Chief Executive Officer Ed Bastian’s July pledge to tamp down capital expenditures on aircraft at least through the end of this year as the company works to stem losses from the collapse in demand for flights. “We’re in intensive contact with customers, and Delta is no exception,” said Airbus spokesman Stefan Schaffrath. “Agreements remain confidential.” Delta declined to comment.<br/>