Boeing has announced significant aircraft orders, securing commitments for up to 80 of its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This announcement, made on Monday, follows Airbus’s recent encroachment into these airlines’ sales during the fallout from Boeing’s 737 Max issues earlier this year.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for Japan Airlines’ decision to re-select the 787 Dreamliner as part of their fleet modernization efforts. This announcement coincides with the first day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a crucial event for the aerospace industry. Japan Airlines is set to acquire 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has ordered 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also with an option for 10 more 787-10s.
This development comes after reports indicating that Airbus had sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking the first instance of the airline purchasing single-aisle planes from a competitor. Additionally, Korean Air recently acquired several wide-body jets from Airbus, a move perceived as a potential jab at Boeing’s 777x, which is awaiting regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, emphasized the significance of the partnership with Korean Air, noting that Boeing planes have been integral to the airline for the past 50 years. She stated that the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will aid Korean Air in achieving its sustainability and growth objectives.