United Airlines is in early negotiations with Airbus regarding a potential order for the A321-200neo to replace some of its existing B737 MAX backlog.
The talks were initiated by United’s CEO, Scott Kirby, during a recent visit to Toulouse Blagnac, and the focus is on replacing outstanding B737-10s due to uncertainty about delivery timelines and quality issues with Boeing aircraft.
Airbus has approached various lessors and airlines to buy back A321neo delivery slots, which would be offered to United upon acquisition.
United Airlines recently removed the B737-10 from its internal fleet planning but has not cancelled its firm order for 292 units. The decision was prompted by a recent in-flight door blowout on a B737-9.
