Why did Delta get rid of 777?


Why did Delta get rid of 777? With schedule and cost reductions during the COVID-19 global pandemic, Delta decided to retire the 777 by the end of 2020, in order to “accelerate the airline's strategy to simplify and modernize its fleet while continuing to operate newer, more cost-efficient aircraft.” See the news release.


Why did Delta retire the 747?

Delta found the 747 too large for its routes, and began trading them back to Boeing in September 1974. The last of the five original Delta 747s, Ship 105, flew on April 23, 1977. It was piloted by Capt. Beverly Dickerson, who had also flown Delta's first 747 scheduled flight in 1970.


Why is the Boeing 777 so good?

The 777 also became Boeing's first Fly By Wire aircraft, meaning that the controls' surfaces on the wings and tail were operated by electrical signals sent “by wire” from the controls in the flight deck. The cabin was engineered to be roomier than other aircraft.


Why is 777 so special?

“The Boeing 777's unique combination of superior range, outstanding fuel efficiency and passenger-preferred comfort has created long-range success for carriers around the world. And the 777-300ER now gives operators a perfect opportunity to extend that success.


Is it safe to fly old planes?

If it's been well-maintained, it should be safe. The next most significant safety factor is pilot experience. They must be familiar with the aircraft, with many flight hours booked in the type. To remain safe, it's a good idea to have aircraft maintenance records audited by a third party.


Where did Delta 777s go?

From LAX, the plane and several others are bound for storage in the desert at Victorville, California, before they are either sold or scrapped, said Lentsch. Delta may continue to use several of its 777s for charters and cargo flights through the end of the year.


Did Boeing 777 lose altitude?

The Boeing 777 (BA. N) jet lost altitude about one minute after departure in heavy rain, descending from 2,100 feet to about 748 feet above the water before the crew recovered from the descent.


Does Delta still fly A380?

In addition, Delta is the only one of the ten largest global airlines in the world that does not operate a large twin engine aircraft such as the largest versions of the Boeing 777 or Airbus A350 or have a quadjet such as the Boeing 747 or Airbus A380 in its fleet.


What is the oldest plane still flying?

Today, the Bleriot XI is still airworthy and holds the distinction of being the oldest plane still flying in the world. It is currently located in Hudson Valley, New York. While it is not used for commercial purposes, the aircraft is occasionally flown for special events, airshows, and historical reenactments.


What will replace the Boeing 777?

And with Emirates planning to retire the less fuel-efficient superjumbos in the early 2030s, the Boeing 777X will replace the older 777 predecessors as intended, and the Airbus A380s to become the airline's new flagship.


Why does Delta fly old planes?

Delta historically has preferred purchasing or leasing used aircraft or use older generation models to keep initial acquisition costs down and then keep those aircraft flying for a longer time than its competitors.


Has Delta ever lost a plane?

On July 31, 1973, Delta flight 723 took off from Burlington and crashed in Boston, killing 89 people. NBC5 held a virtual town hall in honor of the 49th anniversary. The families of the passengers on the plane have grieved for years.


What airline uses the oldest planes?

The oldest plane in service is from Nolinor Aviation, a charter airline in Canada, that operates a Boeing 737 that first went into use in 1976. Despite its age, this plane still works like any newer one due to numerous updates throughout the years.


What is the oldest airline still flying?

KLM, officially known as KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, holds the prestigious title of being the oldest airline in the world still operating under its original name. Founded on October 7th, 1919, by a visionary group led by Dutch pilot Albert Plesman (1889–1953), KLM has a rich history that spans over a century.