United Airlines expects enough Airbus A321XLR deliveries for 2027 Europe expansion

United ordered the A321XLR in 2019 and plans to begin international service with the aircraft on December 1, 2026, from Washington Dulles to Amsterdam and Dublin.

The A321XLR will also help United phase out its aging Boeing 757 fleet. Quayle said United is phasing out its 757s as the A321XLR jets enter service, and that the fleet plan is continually updated to account for delays at aircraft manufacturers.

Airbus delays, however, have held up the entry into service of United's A321neo Coastliner fleet, planned for premium transcontinental flights.

United's expansion comes as the airline sees more European routes remaining viable later in the year.

Quayle said schedules are no longer being cut as sharply after the U.S. Labor Day holiday, with the season extending into October or even November.