Boeing has made significant strides in securing large orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes, announcing on Monday that it has received orders for up to 80 aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This development follows competitive moves from French rival Airbus, who had made inroads with these carriers after issues arose from Boeing’s 737 Max earlier this year.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for the long-standing relationship with Japan Airlines, stating that the airline’s decision to re-select the 787 Dreamliner is a positive move as it modernizes its fleet.
This announcement coincides with the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a significant event in the aviation industry. Japan Airlines has ordered 10 Dreamliners, with an option for an additional 10. Korean Air has placed orders for twenty 777-9 models and twenty 787-10 planes, also with the option for 10 more 787-10s.
The term “long-standing partnership” highlights recent competitive challenges, including a report from March where Airbus sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking the first time the airline acquired a single-aisle model from a manufacturer other than Boeing. This purchase came at a time when the A321neo was seen as a competitor to the troubled 737 Max, which faced production delays and a scandal.
Additionally, it was reported that Airbus had sold several wide-body jets to Korean Air, which predominantly operates Boeing aircraft. This order was seen as a slight against Boeing’s 777X, which is nearing regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, acknowledged the selection of Boeing’s advanced widebody models by Korean Air, emphasizing the historical significance of Boeing aircraft in the airline’s operations over the past 50 years. She noted that the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will play a crucial role in supporting Korean Air’s sustainability goals and future growth.