Delta put off Boeing 787 deliveries to at least 2020

Delta Air Lines has delayed its Boeing 787 Dreamliner deliveries awaiting 2020 to 2022, the company reported Monday.

Delta inherited the order for 18 787-8 aircraft when it took over Northwest Airlines, and previous reports had recommended it might cancel the order.

On Monday, the airline said it reached an agreement with Boeing last month to reaffirm the order while deferring the deliveries, which were formerly set for 2008 to 2010. Boeing itself has frequently delayed delivery of the first 787 to commence customer All Nippon Airways, and that delivery is currently set for the middle of the first quarter of 2011.

Asked about Delta's filing, Boeing spokesman Jim Proulx said: "We are delighted that Delta's reaffirmed its commitment to the 787," adding it would unsuitable to comment further on any customer discussions.

Also Monday, Delta reported that it has approved to sell the four 737-800 aircraft it has on order with Boeing to third parties instantly after delivery.