Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes, securing agreements for up to 80 aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This announcement comes shortly after Airbus made inroads with these carriers following Boeing’s troubles with the 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for the partnership with Japan Airlines, noting their choice to continue with the Dreamliner as they modernize their fleet.
This announcement coincides with the commencement of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry. Japan Airlines plans to order 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has committed to 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also with the option for 10 more of the latter.
The reference to a “long-standing partnership” recalls an earlier report that Airbus sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking their first acquisition of a single-aisle plane from a non-Boeing manufacturer. This sale occurred amid ongoing issues surrounding the 737 Max and a significant production slowdown.
Additionally, reports indicated that Airbus had also sold several wide-body jets to Korean Air, which predominantly operates Boeing aircraft. This move was interpreted as a response to the delayed regulatory approval of the 777X.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, stated that Korean Air’s selection of their largest and most efficient widebody airplanes would enhance its global network, emphasizing Boeing’s integral role in the airline over the past 50 years. She highlighted that the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will be vital to the airline’s sustainability and growth objectives.