Boeing has recently announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes, securing commitments for up to 80 aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This announcement comes as a response to French competitor Airbus, which had gained ground among these carriers following issues with Boeing’s 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for Japan Airlines’ continued partnership, highlighting the airline’s decision to re-select the 787 Dreamliner as it modernizes its fleet.
The announcement coincides with the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a prominent event in the aviation industry. Japan Airlines will receive 10 Dreamliners with the option to acquire 10 additional aircraft. Meanwhile, Korean Air has ordered twenty 777-9 models and twenty 787-10 planes, also with an option for 10 more 787-10s.
This move underscores Boeing’s competitive stance in light of previous reports indicating that Airbus had sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines. This marked the airline’s first purchase of single-aisle jets from a manufacturer other than Boeing, amidst the ongoing challenges facing the 737 Max. Similarly, reports indicated that Airbus had also sold wide-body jets to Korean Air, known for its predominantly Boeing fleet, suggesting a shift in aircraft procurement strategies.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, welcomed Korean Air’s choice of Boeing’s largest and most efficient widebody planes, noting the long-standing relationship with the airline. She emphasized the role of Boeing aircraft in supporting Korean Air’s sustainability goals and growth ambitions over the past five decades.