Delta Air Lines has introduced the Airbus a330-900neo on its routes between New York – Accra, Ghana on October 1st.
Currently, the airline offers one daily nonstop route to New York – JFK Airport and Kotoka International Airport. Kotoka International Airport was recognized as the “Best Airport in Africa” three years in a row between 2019 – 2021.
Delta is one of two major U.S airlines flying into Accra, Ghana. United Airlines also provides service in Accra from Washington-Dulles Airport in Virginia.
The Airbus A330-900neo is the most advanced version of the Airbus A330 in Delta’s fleet. It has a range of 6995 miles, capable of flying 281 passengers on routes that span oceans.
Delta currently has 29 Airbus A330-900neo in its fleet. The airline generally uses this aircraft type on routes to major cities in Europe, like Rome.
What Does This Mean for Delta Customers?
Customers Now Can Travel To Ghana With Comfort in Mind
Delta’s Airbus A330 provides customers with three premium cabin classes to choose from. There are Delta Suites which have lie-flat seats, and privacy doors. Delta Premium Select & Delta Comfort + has increased legroom and wider seats.
The flight between New York and Ghana is 9+ hours. These options give passengers the chance to maximize their comfort to endure the long flight.
Ralph Albus, Delta’s Director of Global Communications said of the inclusion of the Airbus A330-900neo on this route, “Customers will enjoy Delta’s state-of-the-art Airbus A330-900neo, offering the latest in premium travel. The accelerated deployment of this new aircraft reflects the strong demand for our product, and we’re excited to offer passengers a premium onboard experience across the Atlantic with Delta’s renowned service.”
More Efficient Operations on The New York- Ghana Route For Delta.
The A330-900neo increases the number of passenger seats for flights between Ghana and New York by 30%. That means that Delta will likely generate 30% more revenue per flight on this route.
The A330-900neo is also built with fuel efficiency in mind. Fuel efficiency will reduce operational costs improving Delta’s profit margin on this route.
Delta’s Number 1 Spot For Market Share Between Ghana – New York is Solidified
Having a high level of service on a route the airline owns 100% market share creates barriers to entry.
It’s unlikely Delta will see more competition on this route. But, United Airlines has a major hub airport from Newark, which serves the New York City area. If there was an airline to come in and compete with Delta, it would be United. They already see the value of having a flight to Accra from Washington-Dulles.
New York City likely has a much greater passenger demand than the Washington D.C Area. That reason alone may cause United to offer the route to Ghana from New York instead of Houston.
Sources
https://news.delta.com/delta-introduces-state-art-airbus-a330-900neo-accra-new-york-route
