Delta Resumes Widebody Service on Detroit to Phoenix Route with Airbus A330
Delta Air Lines is reintroducing widebody service on its domestic route between Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Beginning on October 27, 2024, Delta will operate the Airbus A330-300 on the 1,700-mile route, which will run through March 8, 2025, coinciding with the peak winter travel season.
Enhanced Capacity with Airbus A330-300
The Airbus A330-300 is among the largest aircraft Delta operates on domestic routes. With a seating capacity of up to 282 passengers, the A330-300 offers 34 business class seats, 40 Comfort+ seats, and 208 standard economy seats, providing ample space for travelers. This widebody aircraft is known for its comfortable, spacious cabin and is typically used on long-haul international flights, making its use on a domestic route notable.
The A330-300 will serve Delta Flight 1070, operating daily between Detroit and Phoenix. This move reflects Delta’s strategy to boost capacity on routes that see high demand during the winter, when both business and leisure travel surge, particularly to warmer destinations like Phoenix.
A Return to Widebody Operations
The decision to reintroduce widebody service on this route marks the first time since October 2021 that Delta has operated such large aircraft between Detroit and Phoenix. Delta regularly operates widebody jets on high-demand domestic routes during the winter season, and the reintroduction of the A330 is expected to significantly increase seat availability for travelers flying to and from Phoenix.
In addition to this service, Delta will also operate a mix of Boeing 767-300 and Boeing 767-400 aircraft between its Atlanta (ATL) hub and Phoenix, ensuring robust capacity on several key domestic routes this winter.
Benefits for Travelers
The reintroduction of widebody aircraft on domestic routes offers travelers a range of benefits, including more seating options in premium cabins, enhanced onboard amenities, and greater overall comfort. For those flying in Delta One (business class), the A330 provides fully flat seats, larger entertainment screens, and upgraded meal service. Meanwhile, Comfort+ and Main Cabin passengers benefit from the spacious design, larger windows, and a quieter cabin environment.
This change is particularly appealing for passengers traveling between Detroit and Phoenix for both business and leisure purposes, as it allows for a more premium experience on what is typically a domestic service route.
Bottom line
Delta’s decision to resume widebody service on its Detroit to Phoenix route with the Airbus A330-300 reflects the airline’s commitment to meeting high winter demand. Passengers can look forward to enhanced comfort and more travel options between the two cities during the busy winter season.
