Boeing has recently announced a significant boost in its orders for key aircraft, securing commitments for up to 80 of its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This announcement comes as a strategic move after Airbus made inroads into the market during Boeing’s challenges with its 737 Max earlier this year.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed satisfaction with Japan Airlines’ decision to continue modernizing its fleet by choosing the 787 Dreamliner, highlighting the importance of their long-standing partnership. The announcement was made on the first day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a prominent trade event in the aviation industry.
Japan Airlines orders include 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has committed to 20 units of the 777-9 models and 20 of the 787-10, also with the option for another 10 of the latter.
These orders come in light of recent reports that Airbus had previously sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines and several wide-body jets to Korean Air, indicating a shift in purchasing patterns amid Boeing’s recent difficulties. In response, Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, reinforced the significance of Boeing’s relationship with Korean Air over the past 50 years and expressed confidence that the new aircraft would bolster the airline’s sustainability goals and growth trajectory.
This announcement reflects Boeing’s resilience and commitment to reclaiming its standing in the competitive aviation market. The strong interest from Japan Airlines and Korean Air demonstrates a renewed confidence in Boeing’s capabilities and product offerings, setting a positive outlook for the company’s future.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, these partnerships and orders may well serve to rejuvenate Boeing’s position and provide a launchpad for future growth.