Boeing has announced a significant number of orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. The planemaker reported on Monday that it has secured orders for up to 80 planes, marking a comeback after losing business to its European competitor, Airbus, during the fallout from the Boeing 737 Max incident earlier this year.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for the partnership with Japan Airlines, stating, “We value our long-standing partnership with Japan Airlines and are pleased that they have re-selected the 787 Dreamliner as they continue to modernize their world-class fleet.”
This announcement coincides with the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aerospace industry. Japan Airlines has ordered ten Dreamliners with the option for an additional ten, while Korean Air has opted for twenty 777-9 models and twenty 787-10s, with an option for ten more 787-10s.
The term “long-standing partnership” highlights a contrast to a previous report in March when Airbus sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, signaling the carrier’s first acquisition of a single-aisle plane from anyone other than Boeing. The A321neo competes directly with the 737 Max, which was under scrutiny during a significant production slowdown.
Additionally, it was reported that Airbus had secured sales of several wide-body jets to Korean Air, which has predominantly relied on Boeing aircraft. This move was perceived as a setback for the Boeing 777x, which is nearing regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, acknowledged Korean Air’s decision by stating, “We are honored Korean Air has selected our largest, most efficient widebody airplanes to add capacity to its global network. Boeing airplanes have played an integral role with Korean Air over the past 50 years, and the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will continue to support the airline’s long-term goals for sustainability and continued growth.”