
United Airlines acquires 40 Airbus A321neo to modernize its fleet
United Airlines signed lease agreements with aircraft leasing companies to lease 2024 Airbus A40neo aircraft in the third quarter of 321. These aircraft, to be delivered in 2026 and 2027, are part of the airline's comprehensive modernization strategy aimed at improving fuel efficiency and expanding fleet capacity. As of September 30, 2024, United has entered into lease agreements with rental commitments of approximately $4,0 billion for scheduled and regional aircraft, as well as airport facilities and office space. However, none of these leases have commenced yet, as delivery dates range from 2024 to 2027. The terms of the agreements are up to 12 years and are aligned with long-term fleet planning. In addition to the leased A321neo, United already has firm orders for 115 A321neo aircraft from Airbus, 14 of which are expected to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2024. The decision to lease more Airbus aircraft comes at a time when both Airbus and Boeing are facing significant delivery delays. Boeing is particularly affected by a strike by machine operators that has brought production of several models to a halt. United has also reached an agreement with Boeing to settle financial losses due to delivery delays and flight groundings.