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 was made on the first day of the Farnborough International Airshow. Following previous advances made by Airbus in securing orders amid challenges faced by Boeing, these recent bookings indicate that Boeing is responding proactively.
Japan Airlines has ordered 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has placed an order for 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also with the option for another 10 787-10s. Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed satisfaction with Japan Airlines’ decision to continue modernizing its fleet with the 787 Dreamliner, highlighting the long-standing partnership between the two companies.
The announcement comes in the wake of Airbus securing 11 A321neo jets from Japan Airlines earlier this year, marking the airline’s initial purchase of a single-aisle aircraft from a competitor other than Boeing. Airbus had also sold several wide-body jets to Korean Air around the same time, suggesting a shift in procurement strategies as Korean Air has predominantly operated Boeing aircraft.
In commenting on the recent orders, Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, emphasized the significance of Boeing aircraft in Korean Air’s operations over the past five decades. She highlighted that the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will support the airline’s long-term sustainability and growth objectives.