Boeing has secured significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes, announcing a deal for up to 80 aircraft with Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This news comes on the first day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry. Japan Airlines has committed to 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has ordered 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, with the option for 10 more 787-10s.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for Japan Airlines’ continued partnership, highlighting the airline’s move to modernize its fleet with the 787 Dreamliner.
The recent orders illustrate Boeing’s determination to compete against Airbus, which had recently made inroads with both airlines. In March, Japan Airlines made headlines by purchasing 11 A321neo jets from Airbus, marking the first time it bought a single-aisle plane from a manufacturer other than Boeing. Similarly, Airbus also secured orders from Korean Air during that period, which was seen as a potential challenge to Boeing’s dominance, particularly concerning the 777x aircraft.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, welcomed the orders from Korean Air, emphasizing the crucial role Boeing’s aircraft have played in the airline’s operations over the past 50 years. She noted that the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will help Korean Air achieve its long-term sustainability and growth objectives.