Boeing has recently announced significant orders for its major aircraft. On Monday, the company revealed it has secured orders for up to 80 of its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This development comes after Airbus had gained ground with these carriers following issues related to Boeing’s 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for the long-standing relationship with Japan Airlines, stating how pleased they are that the airline has chosen to continue with the 787 Dreamliner as part of its fleet modernization efforts.
This announcement coincides with the start of the Farnborough International Airshow, a significant event in the aviation industry. Japan Airlines will acquire 10 Dreamliners with an option for 10 additional ones. Meanwhile, Korean Air has ordered twenty 777-9 models and twenty 787-10 planes, with the possibility of 10 more 787-10s.
The reference to a long-standing partnership is reminiscent of a report from March, which indicated that Airbus had sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines—its first single-aisle purchase from a competitor. The A321neo directly competes with the 737 Max, which was facing a scandal and production challenges at that time.
Additionally, during the same period, reports suggested Airbus had also sold wide-body jets to Korean Air, which predominantly operates Boeing aircraft. This move was perceived as a message to Boeing regarding the delayed clearance of the 777x.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, expressed gratitude to Korean Air for selecting Boeing’s largest and most efficient widebody planes, emphasizing the important role Boeing has played in the airline’s operations over the past 50 years. She noted that the new aircraft will support Korean Air’s long-term sustainability and growth objectives.