Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft, securing commitments for up to 80 planes from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This comes after Airbus gained traction with these carriers earlier this year, highlighting Boeing’s efforts to reclaim its market position.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed satisfaction with Japan Airlines’ choice to continue modernizing its fleet by selecting the 787 Dreamliner. He stated, “We value our long-standing partnership with Japan Airlines.”
The announcement coincided with the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry. Japan Airlines has committed to 10 Dreamliners with the option for an additional 10. Meanwhile, Korean Air has ordered 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also with the option for 10 more 787-10s.
This renewed partnership with Japan Airlines follows a report indicating that Airbus had sold 11 A321neo jets to the airline in March, marking its first purchase of a single-aisle aircraft from anyone besides Boeing. The A321neo competes with Boeing’s 737 Max, which was facing challenges due to ongoing controversies and a production slowdown.
Similarly, reports suggested that Airbus had made sales to Korean Air, traditionally a Boeing customer, further indicating a shift in customer dynamics. Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, expressed gratitude for Korean Air’s selection of their “largest, most efficient widebody airplanes,” noting the critical role Boeing has played in the airline’s development over the past half-century. She emphasized that the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will support the carrier’s long-term sustainability and growth objectives.