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 announcement was made on the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry. Japan Airlines has ordered 10 Dreamliners, with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has committed to 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also with the option for 10 more 787-10s.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for Japan Airlines’ continued investment in the 787 Dreamliner as part of their fleet modernization efforts. This comes after a period where Airbus had gained traction with these airlines amid challenges for Boeing, particularly related to issues with the 737 Max.
The announcement comes shortly after reports indicated Airbus sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking their first acquisition of a single-aisle aircraft from a manufacturer other than Boeing. Similarly, Korean Air was also reported to have ordered several wide-body jets from Airbus, a decision seen as a slight against Boeing’s 777x model, which is nearing regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, emphasized the significance of the orders, highlighting the longstanding partnership with Korean Air and the company’s commitment to supporting the airline’s sustainability and growth objectives through these latest aircraft.