Delta and United Reduce Boeing 757-300 Operations This December

Two of the United States’ major airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, are significantly scaling back their operations involving the Boeing 757-300 this December. As one of the last remaining operators of this aircraft type, both airlines are witnessing a reduction in scheduled flights, reflecting a broader trend in the aviation industry.

Data from Cirium, a leading aviation analytics company, reveals that Delta and United are slated to operate a combined total of 2,503 flights with the Boeing 757-300 this month, offering approximately 585,702 seats. This represents a substantial decrease of about 21.6% compared to December 2024, when the airlines scheduled 3,193 flights and 747,162 seats.

Fleet Age and Availability

The age of the Boeing 757-300 fleet is notable, as both airlines operate relatively old aircraft. Delta currently has 16 Boeing 757-300 planes with an average age of 22.9 years, while United operates 21 of the same aircraft with a mean age of 23.4 years. In comparison, these numbers are dwarfed by the airlines’ fleets of the standard 757-200, with Delta operating 94 and United 40.

The Boeing 757-300, launched with great anticipation, is the largest single-aisle twinjet produced by Boeing, measuring 178 feet 7 inches (54.5 meters) in length. It boasts a capacity that is 20% greater than the older 757-200 model.

United Airlines’ 757-300 Operations

Among the two carriers, United Airlines has reduced its Boeing 757-300 operations more sharply. This month, the airline plans to operate 1,099 flights, resulting in 257,166 available seats—a decrease of approximately 28.9% from last year. Passengers interested in flying on this aircraft should consider routes departing from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD).

United has scheduled 78 flights to San Francisco International Airport (SFO), 73 to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and 43 to Denver (DEN). The airline’s Boeing 757-300s are configured in a two-class layout, accommodating a total of 234 passengers, with 24 seats in domestic first class and 210 economy seats, including 54 with additional legroom.

Delta Airlines’ 757-300 Operations

Delta Air Lines is also experiencing a decline in its Boeing 757-300 operations. The Atlanta-based airline plans to operate 1,404 flights this month, providing 328,536 seats. Similar to United, Delta’s aircraft configuration mirrors that of its competitor, featuring 24 first-class seats and 210 in economy.

For those keen to fly on Delta’s 757-300s, Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a prime departure point. The airline has scheduled 125 flights from its Detroit (DTW) hub and 109 from Minneapolis (MSP). Additionally, routes from Minneapolis to Phoenix (PHX) and services to Fort Myers (RSW) and Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International (FLL) also include multiple daily flights.

As the aviation industry continues to evolve, the future of the Boeing 757-300 remains uncertain. The ongoing reduction in operations signals a shift in preferences and operational strategies among major airlines.