Boeing has announced significant orders for its largest aircraft, revealing on Monday that it has secured commitments for up to 80 units of its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This announcement follows a period where French competitor Airbus gained ground with these carriers, prompting Boeing to respond strongly.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s head of sales operations, stated, “We value our long-standing partnership with Japan Airlines and are pleased that they have re-selected the 787 Dreamliner as they continue to modernize their world-class fleet.”
The announcement aligns with the start of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry. Japan Airlines will initially acquire 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10. Meanwhile, Korean Air has placed an order for 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also with an option for 10 more 787-10s.
This renewed collaboration comes after reports earlier this year indicated that Airbus had sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking the first time the airline opted for a single-aisle aircraft from a manufacturer other than Boeing. The A321neo directly competes with Boeing’s 737 Max, which was embroiled in controversy at the time.
Additionally, reports suggested that Airbus had also sold several wide-body jets to Korean Air, which predominantly operates Boeing aircraft. This was perceived as a slight against the 777x, which is still nearing regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, expressed her appreciation for Korean Air’s selection of Boeing’s newest and most efficient widebody models. She remarked, “Boeing airplanes have played an integral role with Korean Air over the past 50 years, and the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will continue to support the airline’s long-term goals for sustainability and continued growth.”