Boeing has 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 news, revealed on Monday, indicates that Boeing is responding robustly after Airbus captured market share following issues with Boeing’s 737 Max earlier this year.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s head of sales operations, expressed appreciation for the continued partnership with Japan Airlines, highlighting their selection of the 787 Dreamliner as they modernize their fleet.
The announcement coincides with the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry calendar. Japan Airlines ordered 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air committed to 20 of the 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also with an option for 10 more 787-10s.
This development comes in light of previous reports suggesting Airbus had made inroads with both airlines. In March, it was reported that Japan Airlines had purchased 11 A321neo jets from Airbus, marking the first time it procured a single-aisle plane from a competitor other than Boeing. Additionally, Korean Air had indicated interest in Airbus wide-body jets, a move that some speculated was in response to delays involving Boeing’s 777x aircraft.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplane division, conveyed honor at Korean Air’s decision to select Boeing’s aircraft for its fleet expansion, emphasizing the longstanding relationship between the airline and Boeing, which spans 50 years. The 777X and 787 Dreamliner are stated to align with Korean Air’s goals for sustainable growth and expansion.