Boeing has recently announced significant new orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft, indicating a strong recovery in demand amidst past challenges. On Monday, the aerospace giant revealed that it secured orders for up to 80 aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air, thereby reasserting its competitive position against rival Airbus, which had gained market share during the fallout from the Boeing 737 Max incident.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed gratitude for the ongoing partnership with Japan Airlines, highlighting their selection of the 787 Dreamliner to modernize their fleet. The airline will acquire 10 Dreamliners, with options for 10 additional units. Meanwhile, Korean Air has committed to purchasing 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, along with the option for another 10 787-10s.
This announcement aligns with the first day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a prominent event for the aviation industry. It follows recent reports of Airbus making inroads into the Japanese airline market, notably selling 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines — its first acquisition of a single-aisle aircraft from Airbus instead of Boeing. Additionally, there were reports of Airbus supplying several wide-body jets to Korean Air, marking a notable shift, as the airline’s fleet has predominantly consisted of Boeing aircraft.
Stephanie Pope, leading Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, expressed her honor about Korean Air’s selection of Boeing’s advanced widebody models, emphasizing that these aircraft will enhance the airline’s global operations while aligning with its sustainability and growth objectives over the long term.
This development signifies a positive turning point for Boeing, as it underscores the company’s resilience and commitment to securing its position in the aviation market. With these new orders, Boeing not only restores confidence among its clients but also reinforces its capabilities in delivering innovative aircraft designed for modern aviation needs.
In summary, while Boeing faced challenges in recent years, these new commitments from Japan Airlines and Korean Air highlight a promising trajectory toward recovery and growth in the aviation sector.