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 commitments for up to 80 planes, signaling its response to recent competitive pressures from Airbus.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed the company’s appreciation for the partnership with Japan Airlines, stating that the airline’s decision to select the 787 Dreamliner reflects its commitment to modernizing its fleet.
These announcements were made at the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry. Japan Airlines has committed to acquiring 10 Dreamliners with the option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has ordered twenty 777-9 models along with twenty 787-10 planes, also with the option to purchase 10 more 787-10s.
This news highlights the competitive environment as both airlines had recently engaged with Airbus, marking a shift as Japan Airlines purchased 11 A321neo jets from the company earlier this year. This was significant as it was the first instance of Japan Airlines buying a single-aisle plane from a manufacturer other than Boeing. Similarly, Korean Air had made purchases from Airbus, a move interpreted as a challenge to Boeing’s dominance, particularly in light of the ongoing issues surrounding the 777X program.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, acknowledged the long-standing relationship with Korean Air and emphasized the importance of the 777X and 787 Dreamliner in supporting the airline’s sustainability efforts and future growth.