With schedule and cost reductions during the COVID-19 global pandemic, Delta decided to retire the 777 by the end of 2020, in order to “accelerate the airline's strategy to simplify and modernize its fleet while continuing to operate newer, more cost-efficient aircraft.” See the news release.

Delta Air Lines officially retired its entire fleet of 18 Boeing 777 aircraft in late 2020, and as of 2026, they have no plans to bring them back. The decision was driven by a strategic move toward a more simplified and fuel-efficient fleet. The 777s, while beloved by pilots and passengers for their comfort, were the least "unit-cost efficient" widebody aircraft in Delta's lineup at the time. By retiring them, Delta was able to consolidate its long-haul operations onto the Airbus A350-900 and the Airbus A330-900neo, which consume significantly less fuel and have lower maintenance costs. This "fleet simplification" also allowed Delta to reduce expenses related to pilot training and spare parts inventory, as they moved away from a mixed Boeing/Airbus long-haul fleet toward a more Airbus-heavy international strategy. In 2026, Delta continues to rely on the A350 as its flagship "ultra-long-haul" workhorse, which offers similar range to the 777 but with modern aerodynamics and "next-gen" engine technology that aligns better with the airline's sustainability goals.