Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. The company revealed on Monday that it secured orders for up to 80 planes, indicating a strong comeback after facing increased competition from Airbus earlier this year, particularly following issues related to the 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s sales operations leader, expressed appreciation for Japan Airlines’ decision to continue using the 787 Dreamliner as it modernizes its fleet. This announcement coincided with the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key industry event.
Japan Airlines is set to acquire 10 Dreamliners, with an option for an additional 10. Meanwhile, Korean Air has ordered twenty 777-9 models and twenty 787-10 aircraft, with a potential for 10 more 787-10s.
This move is particularly noteworthy as it marks a shift in Japan Airlines’ purchasing patterns; earlier reports indicated that the airline had ordered 11 A321neo jets from Airbus, which was its first purchase of a single-aisle plane from any manufacturer other than Boeing. Additionally, Korean Air previously purchased Airbus wide-body jets, suggesting a competitive dynamic as Boeing’s 777X approaches regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, welcomed Korean Air’s order, highlighting the longstanding relationship between the airline and Boeing and how the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will contribute to the airline’s sustainability and growth objectives.