Boeing has announced significant aircraft orders from Japan Airlines and Korean Air, securing commitments for up to 80 of its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes. This announcement comes as a response to the competitive pressure from Airbus, which had recently gained ground with these airlines following the challenges Boeing faced with its 737 Max model.
According to Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, the company values its longstanding relationship with Japan Airlines, which has chosen to enhance its fleet with additional Dreamliners. The orders were revealed on the first day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event for the aviation industry. Japan Airlines is set to acquire 10 Dreamliners with the option for an additional 10. Meanwhile, Korean Air has ordered 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, with a further option for 10 more 787-10s.
This partnership comes after a period where Airbus managed to sell 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking a shift as it was the first purchase of a single-aisle aircraft from a manufacturer other than Boeing. Similarly, Airbus also sold several wide-body jets to Korean Air, challenging Boeing’s dominance in their fleet.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, expressed honor at Korean Air’s selection of Boeing’s largest and most efficient planes, emphasizing the long-standing collaboration between the two companies over the past 50 years. The new aircraft are expected to align with Korean Air’s sustainability goals and growth objectives.