Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air, securing commitments for up to 80 planes. The announcement was made on the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry. This development follows a period where rival Airbus has gained ground with these carriers after Boeing faced challenges related to its 737 Max model.
Japan Airlines has ordered 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has placed orders for 20 777-9 jets and 20 787-10 planes, also with the possibility of acquiring 10 more 787-10s. Brad McMullen, Boeing’s sales operations head, expressed appreciation for Japan Airlines’ continued partnership and its decision to modernize its fleet with the Dreamliner.
This recent shift in orders highlights competition within the industry. Earlier this year, reports indicated that Airbus sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking a departure from exclusively purchasing from Boeing. Similarly, Airbus made deals with Korean Air, which primarily operates Boeing aircraft, suggesting a notable trend in the carriers’ fleet strategies.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, remarked on the significance of the orders, stating the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will support Korean Air’s long-term sustainability and growth objectives as they enhance their global network.