Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft, securing commitments from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. The planemaker reported on Monday that it has gained orders for up to 80 aircraft, indicating a strong rebound after facing competition from Airbus in the wake of the 737 Max issues earlier this year.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed satisfaction with Japan Airlines’ decision to choose the 787 Dreamliner as part of its fleet modernization efforts. The airline has placed an order for 10 Dreamliners, with an option for 10 additional aircraft.
During the Farnborough International Airshow, a key industry event taking place this week, Korean Air also announced its plans to acquire 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, along with the option to add 10 more 787-10s.
This new business comes after reports earlier this year indicated that both Japan Airlines and Korean Air had begun purchasing aircraft from Airbus, marking a shift in their long-standing relationship with Boeing. In March, Japan Airlines made headlines by procuring 11 A321neo jets from Airbus, the first single-aisle acquisition from a competitor. Similarly, reports suggested that Airbus sold several wide-body jets to Korean Air, seen as a challenge to Boeing’s 777X, which is nearing regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, remarked on the importance of its long-standing relationship with Korean Air and emphasized that Boeing’s aircraft will continue to help the airline meet its sustainability and growth objectives.