Boeing has recently made significant strides in securing orders for its large aircraft, demonstrating resilience in a competitive market. On Monday, the aerospace giant announced it has secured orders for up to 80 of its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This move comes in response to previous incursions by French rival Airbus, which had gained ground with these carriers following operational challenges related to Boeing’s 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s head of sales operations, expressed the company’s commitment to its partnership with Japan Airlines, stating, “We value our long-standing partnership with Japan Airlines and are pleased that they have re-selected the 787 Dreamliner as they continue to modernize their world-class fleet.”
This announcement coincides with the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a premier industry event. Japan Airlines will be acquiring 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has placed orders for 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also with options for more 787-10s.
Boeing’s recent successes stand in stark contrast to earlier reports indicating that Airbus had secured a deal for 11 A321neo jets from Japan Airlines, marking the airline’s first purchase of a single-aisle jet from a manufacturer other than Boeing. Similarly, reports emerged that Airbus had sold wide-body jets to Korean Air while the majority of its fleet remains comprised of Boeing aircraft.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, welcomed the orders from Korean Air, stating, “We are honored Korean Air has selected our largest, most efficient widebody airplanes to add capacity to its global network.” She also highlighted Boeing’s integral role in supporting the airline’s growth and sustainability goals over the past 50 years.
In summary, Boeing’s recent aircraft orders from major airlines signal a turning point for the company as it aims to regain market share and rebuild trust after previous setbacks. The renewed partnerships reflect a strong commitment to innovation in aviation and signify encouraging prospects for Boeing’s future amidst heightened competition in the industry.