Delta grabbed the headlines on the first day of the event yesterday with a US$13.5 billion order for 100 medium-haul MAX jets built by Airbus rival Boeing.

“Delta was the US launch customer for the A220 and it is great to announce this incremental order that demonstrates how satisfied it is with (the plane),” Airbus chief commercial officer Christian Scherer said today.

The Airbus announcement brings Delta’s total firm A220 order to 107 of the aircraft.

“These additional aircraft in the A220 family are an excellent investment for our customers and employees and will be fundamental as we work toward a more sustainable future for air travel,” said Mahendra Nair, Delta’s senior vice president for aircraft and technology.

Deliveries of the 130-seater aircraft ordered at the week-long Farnborough show commence in 2026. Delta is expected to win a discount on list prices as is traditionally the case for big orders.