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 announcement comes in the wake of previous sales made by Airbus to these airlines, which occurred during a challenging period for Boeing marked by issues surrounding its 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for the enduring partnership with Japan Airlines, noting their decision to select the 787 Dreamliner to modernize their fleet.
The announcement was made on the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, an important event in the aviation industry. Japan Airlines has committed to acquiring 10 Dreamliners, with an option for an additional 10. Meanwhile, Korean Air has ordered 20 units of the 777-9 and 20 units of the 787-10, also with an option for 10 more 787-10s.
This renewed interest in Boeing aircraft from Japanese and Korean airlines follows a period where Airbus made significant inroads with both carriers. In March, Airbus secured its first sale of A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking a pivotal moment as it was their first purchase of a single-aisle aircraft from a competitor. Additionally, reports indicated Airbus also sold multiple wide-body jets to Korean Air, which traditionally has a fleet predominantly composed of Boeing planes.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, expressed gratitude for Korean Air’s selection of Boeing’s most advanced widebody aircraft, citing their longstanding history with the airline and emphasizing the 777X and 787 Dreamliner’s role in supporting Korean Air’s sustainability and growth objectives.