In a surprise announcement today, United CEO Oscar Munoz announced that United will be acquiring advanced positions for A-350 deliveries in 4Q 2017 and early 2018. These positions were made available when middle east carriers deferred orders earlier this year.
The orders announced were for 15 A-350-900 aircraft by the en of 2017 followed by 12 -900s and 20 A350-1000 aircraft in 2018-2019. Mr. Munoz said the increase in available seats would improve UAL’s standing in the international marketplace.