Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft, securing commitments from Japan Airlines and Korean Air for up to 80 planes. This announcement comes as a response to Airbus’s encroachment on these carriers following issues with Boeing’s 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s head of sales operations, expressed appreciation for the ongoing partnership with Japan Airlines, noting their decision to update their fleet with the 787 Dreamliner. During the Farnborough International Airshow, Japan Airlines confirmed an order for 10 Dreamliners, with an option for 10 more. Korean Air has ordered 20 of the 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, with an additional option for 10 more 787-10s.
This recent move by Japan Airlines follows a March report indicating that Airbus had sold 11 A321neo jets to the airline, marking the first time Japan Airlines purchased a single-aisle aircraft from a competitor. The A321neo is considered a competitor to the 737 Max, which was facing significant production challenges and scrutiny at that time.
Additionally, there were reports that Airbus sold several wide-body jets to Korean Air, which predominantly operates Boeing aircraft. This was viewed as a potential slight to the 777X, which is nearing regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, stated her gratitude to Korean Air for selecting Boeing’s wide-body models to enhance its fleet. She highlighted the long-standing relationship between Boeing and Korean Air, emphasizing that the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will contribute to the airline’s sustainability and growth objectives.