Chicago, April 21 - United Airlines, one of the world’s largest carriers by fleet size, is reportedly considering the retirement of its Boeing 767 and 777 aircraft as part of its ongoing fleet modernization strategy, with potential phase-outs beginning as early as May 2025. This development aligns with the airline’s “United Next” initiative, launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, which emphasizes operational efficiency, fuel savings, and an enhanced passenger experience through a younger, more advanced fleet. As of April 2025, United operates a mainline fleet of 1,020 aircraft, including 53 Boeing 767s and 96 Boeing 777s, which are among the oldest in its portfolio, with average ages of approximately 26-27 years for the 767s and 22 years for the 777s. These aging wide-body jets, while historically reliable, face increasing maintenance costs and operational challenges that make their retirement a strategic consideration.
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The decision to potentially retire these aircraft stems from a combination of economic and operational factors. United has faced lower-than-expected profitability in early 2025, prompting a reevaluation of its fleet to address high maintenance costs and adapt to shifting market demands. The Boeing 767-300ER and 767-400ER, as well as older Boeing 777-200 and 777-200ER variants, are less fuel-efficient compared to modern aircraft like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which United is rapidly integrating into its fleet. The airline has orders for 145 Boeing 787-9s, with a total of 667 aircraft on order, including 119 Airbus A321neos and 45 Airbus A350-900s, signaling a clear shift toward next-generation planes. The 787s, with their advanced technology and lower operating costs, are positioned to replace the aging 767s and older 777s, particularly on long-haul international routes where efficiency is critical.
United’s fleet strategy also reflects broader industry trends and specific market challenges. The airline has noted economic uncertainty and reduced demand in certain sectors, such as government-related travel, which constitutes about 2% of its business but has declined by roughly 50% in 2025. Additionally, international markets pose heightened risks, prompting United to cut its fleet network capacity by 4% from initial plans, with effects expected in the third quarter of 2025. Retiring older aircraft like the 767 and 777 allows United to streamline operations and reduce exposure to these uncertainties. The transition, however, is not without hurdles. Supply chain issues have delayed deliveries of new aircraft, complicating the phase-out of older models. Despite these challenges, United’s commitment to modernization remains firm, as evidenced by its retention of wide-body aircraft during the pandemic to meet resurgent international demand.
The potential retirement of the 767s and 777s marks a significant step in United’s long-term vision. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A321neo/XLR are expected to take over key routes, offering improved fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. For instance, the A321XLR will replace the Boeing 757 on transcontinental and transatlantic flights, while the 787s will dominate long-haul operations. United’s order of 45 Airbus A350-900s, slated for delivery starting in 2030, is also anticipated to eventually replace the remaining 777- 200ERs. This fleet renewal not only enhances United’s competitive edge but also supports its sustainability goals by reducing emissions through more efficient aircraft. In summary, United Airlines’ consideration of retiring its Boeing 767 and 777 fleets by May 2025 reflects a strategic response to aging aircraft, economic pressures, and market dynamics. By prioritizing modern, fuel-efficient planes like the Boeing 787 and Airbus A321neo, United aims to maintain its position as a global aviation leader while navigating the complexities of fleet transition in a challenging industry landscape.