Boeing has announced significant new orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft. On Monday, the company revealed that it secured commitments for up to 80 planes from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This development comes after Airbus had made inroads with these carriers following issues with Boeing’s 737 Max earlier this year.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed satisfaction with Japan Airlines’ decision to select the 787 Dreamliner as they update their fleet. The announcement coincides with the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aerospace industry.
Japan Airlines will acquire 10 Dreamliners, with an option for 10 more, while Korean Air has placed orders for 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also with the option for an additional 10 787-10s.
The reference to a “long-standing partnership” with Japan Airlines highlights a recent shift in dynamics, as reported in March when Airbus sold 11 A321neo jets to the airline, marking the first time it chose a single-aisle aircraft from a competitor. This purchase occurred amid ongoing issues with Boeing’s 737 Max and a slowdown in production.
Similarly, Bloomberg had reported that Airbus also secured orders for wide-body jets from Korean Air, prompting speculation that the move was a response to delays in the 777x, which is nearing regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, expressed gratitude to Korean Air for choosing their widebody aircraft, emphasizing Boeing’s historical role with the airline and the commitment to sustainability and growth through the new models.