United Announces New Plane Orders

United Airlines announced Monday it had placed several orders for new airplanes, including 25 Embraer E-175 and four Boeing 787-9 aircraft.

The carrier plans to use the new Embraer planes to replace its existing fleet of CRJ-700 aircraft being flown by United Express partners and provide a more comfortable and efficient option for its customers.

As for the new Boeing 787-9 planes, they will be part of United’s widebody fleet replacement strategy, which will help the airline reduce fuel costs and feature the carrier’s all-new United Polaris business class seats.

“These new 787 aircraft are another step in our widebody replacement strategy, and we will continue to roll out new announcements in the future as we implement our comprehensive fleet plan,” United chief financial officer Gerry Laderman said in a statement. “The new E-175 aircraft will provide our customers with a superior product that offers the latest in onboard amenities and comfort and will be a terrific addition to our fleet.”

United expects to take delivery of the Embraer E-175 aircraft in 2019 and expects to take delivery of the Boeing 787-9 aircraft in 2020.

Airline officials revealed they will continue to evaluate opportunities to purchase used aircraft.