Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle jets, securing commitments for up to 80 aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This announcement comes as a response to recent competitive moves by Airbus, particularly after Boeing faced challenges related to its 737 Max model earlier this year.
During the Farnborough International Airshow, Japan Airlines confirmed an order for 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10. Korean Air committed to buying 20 of the 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also opting for 10 more 787-10s.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s sales operations head, acknowledged the continued partnership with Japan Airlines, stating their selection of the 787 Dreamliner underscores efforts to modernize their fleet. He emphasized the significance of this relationship.
The announcement follows earlier reports revealing that Airbus had sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking the first time the airline procured single-aisle aircraft from a competitor. Additionally, there were reports of Airbus selling wide-body jets to Korean Air amid ongoing issues with Boeing’s 777x program.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, expressed gratitude for Korean Air’s selection of Boeing’s most advanced widebody aircraft, highlighting the long-standing relationship between the two companies and Boeing’s role in supporting the airline’s growth and sustainability goals.