Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. The company reported on Monday that it has secured orders for up to 80 planes, signaling a strong comeback following a challenging period marked by the 737 Max issues earlier this year.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed satisfaction with Japan Airlines’ decision to continue its longstanding partnership and opt for the 787 Dreamliner as it upgrades its fleet. The announcement coincides with the commencement of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aerospace industry.
Japan Airlines is set to acquire 10 Dreamliners, with an option for an additional 10. Meanwhile, Korean Air has ordered 20 units of the 777-9 model and 20 of the 787-10, also with an option for 10 more 787-10s.
This announcement comes in the wake of reports earlier this year indicating that Airbus had begun selling A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking a significant shift in the airline’s purchasing strategy. Similarly, Korean Air had reportedly ordered several wide-body jets from Airbus, potentially as a response to delays in the 777x program.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating that Boeing’s aircraft have played a crucial role in Korean Air’s operations over the past 50 years. She emphasized that the new 777X and 787 Dreamliner would align with the airline’s sustainability goals and growth plans.