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, revealed on Monday, indicates that the U.S. manufacturer is actively competing after Airbus made inroads with these airlines during the aftermath of issues related to Boeing’s 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for the ongoing relationship with Japan Airlines, highlighting their decision to select the 787 Dreamliner as part of their fleet modernization efforts.
The 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, while Korean Air has placed an order for 20 models of the 777-9 and 20 of the 787-10, with an option for 10 more 787-10s.
This move comes after reports earlier this year indicated that Airbus had sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking a notable shift as it was the airline’s first purchase of a single-aisle aircraft from a manufacturer other than Boeing. The A321neo competes with Boeing’s 737 Max, which has faced significant challenges.
Additionally, Korean Air’s recent orders are seen as a response to Airbus’ sales of wide-body jets, a shift given that Boeing currently supplies the majority of its fleet. Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, stated her honor in Korean Air’s choice of Boeing’s largest wide-body planes, emphasizing their historical partnership and commitment to supporting the airline’s goals for sustainability and growth.