Delta Air Lines is removing engines from new Airbus aircraft in Europe to reactivate grounded planes in the US.
The strategy aims to address an engine shortage and avoid aircraft import tariffs imposed by the United States. Delta has reported that 65 of its fleet of 1,007 aircraft are currently inactive, including various A220 and A320 models.
During a second-quarter 2025 investor call, Ed Bastian reaffirmed the airline’s intention to avoid paying tariffs for aircraft deliveries. Delta has pending orders for 274 aircraft, including A321-200NXs and A220-300s.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian shared “We are not planning on paying any tariffs for aircraft deliveries,” adding that the potential imposition of tariffs has contributed to the decision not to import the new aircraft into the United States.
