Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft. The company revealed on Monday that it has secured orders for up to 80 jets from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This development follows a period where European competitor Airbus made strides with these carriers, particularly after issues surrounding Boeing’s 737 Max earlier this year.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s head of sales operations, expressed confidence in the ongoing relationship 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 comes concurrent with the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry. Japan Airlines has committed to purchasing 10 Dreamliners, with the option to acquire 10 more. Meanwhile, Korean Air has ordered 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, including an option for an additional 10 787-10s.
The mention of a “long-standing partnership” highlights a shift in dynamics, as noted in a previous report where Airbus had sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking the airline’s first purchase of a single-aisle aircraft from a manufacturer other than Boeing. This acquisition occurred while Boeing faced significant challenges tied to the 737 Max scandal.
Similarly, reports indicated that Airbus had made sales of wide-body jets to Korean Air, which predominantly operates a Boeing fleet. This move was perceived as a rebuttal to the 777x aircraft, which is still awaiting regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, stated, “We are honored Korean Air has selected our largest, most efficient widebody airplanes to add capacity to its global network. Boeing airplanes have played an integral role with Korean Air over the past 50 years, and the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will continue to support the airline’s long-term goals for sustainability and continued growth.”