In a strategic move, Airbus is reportedly making efforts to position its A321neos as a viable alternative to Boeing's MAX 10 for United Airlines. As the carrier hesitates over the MAX 10, Airbus is exploring ways to snatch the order, despite facing a significant backlog for its A320neo family aircraft.

United Airlines currently faces a difficult decision between choosing more MAX 9s or considering the A321neo as a replacement option. While the MAX 9 would maintain range capabilities without compromising capacity, it would result in a 5% loss in seating capacity compared to the MAX 10.

On the other hand, the A321neo offers slightly higher capacity and more range, which could be advantageous for United in certain scenarios. However, if United intended to deploy the MAX 10 on shorter routes, the A321neo's heavier weight might compromise efficiency. The A321neo weighs in at 213,800 lbs (97 metric tonnes), while the MAX 10 weighs 197,900 lbs (89.8 metric tonnes), according to Airbus and Boeing.

Delta Air Lines, in a similar predicament, already operates the A321neo but may have to consider the MAX 9 if the MAX 10 order remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Ryanair faces a more challenging situation, being an all-737 operator. As the airline prioritizes fleet simplicity and low-cost operations, it is essentially locked in with Boeing and must either wait for the MAX 10 or settle for the MAX 9, potentially leading to higher costs per seat.

Amidst United's hesitations, it seems that Airbus is actively trying to sway the carrier towards its A321neos. Reports suggest that Airbus is in talks with its current customers, including jet leasing firms and airlines, proposing to buy back delivery slots for A321neos in order to offer them to United. This move comes despite Airbus already having a lengthy backlog for its A320neo family that extends for years.

The European planemaker's interest in securing United's order is driven by the carrier's significance as one of the largest airlines in the world and a major Boeing customer. While Airbus aims to win more business from United, it remains to be seen whether other customers will be willing to give up their delivery slots.

As United ponders its best course of action, it could opt for a wait-and-see approach, hoping that MAX 10 certification won't face significant delays. However, this strategy would leave the carrier with only the MAX 9 as the closest available replacement option. Alternatively, United could actively pursue securing A321neos within its desired timeframe.

The decision United makes will have implications for both Airbus and Boeing, as they vie for the airline's favor. As the industry watches closely, only time will tell which aircraft manufacturer will ultimately win United's order.