United Airlines' short and medium-haul fleet is considered to be showing its age. The US airlines have now placed large orders with Airbus and Boeing. The carrier ordered a total of 270 new machines.

With 200 units, the lion's share is accounted for by the Boeing 737-Max. Of these, 150 copies are to be delivered in the largest variant, Max-10, and 50 pieces as Max-8. United Airlines is also purchasing a training simulator for this type of machine.

“United Airlines’s trust in Boeing’s people and the aircraft we design and build every day really humbles us. Our strong partnership, which dates back to the founding of United, has helped us grow and overcome challenges over the decades. We look forward to the recovery ahead and are honored that United has once again chosen the performance, efficiency and flexibility of the 737 family to fuel their growing network. The Boeing team is excited to build hundreds of these new jets for United and to reach a groundbreaking agreement that will cement our future together for decades to come, ”said Boeing CEO Stan Deal.

70 Airbus A321neo ordered

A total of 70 A321neo were ordered from European competitor Airbus. Taking into account a previous order for 50 A321XLRs, the order volume has grown to 120 machines.

"Having such a significant order from a major airline like United underscores that the A321neo offers unmatched capabilities, economics and passenger-friendliness," said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International. “No other aircraft can do what the A321neo can do, and the Airbus team is delighted with United's strong confirmation of premium status. The A321neo will complement United's future A321XLR aircraft and together form a separate privileged segment. "