Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft, securing commitments for up to 80 planes from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This development comes after Airbus had made inroads with these carriers following issues with Boeing’s 737 Max earlier this year. The new orders indicate Boeing’s robust response to competition in the market.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed gratitude for the ongoing partnership with Japan Airlines, which has opted for 10 Dreamliners with an option for 10 additional units. Meanwhile, Korean Air has made commitments for 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, with a further option for 10 more 787-10s.
This partnership highlights a notable shift, as reported in March when Airbus had sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking the first time the carrier chose a single-aisle jet from a manufacturer other than Boeing. Additionally, reports indicated that Airbus had supplied several wide-body jets to Korean Air, which predominantly operates Boeing aircraft, signaling a potential competitive shift in this segment.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, stated that Boeing’s aircraft have been crucial to Korean Air over the last 50 years and that the newly ordered 777X and 787 Dreamliner will assist the airline in achieving its long-term sustainability and growth objectives.