Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. On Monday, the company revealed that it had secured orders for up to 80 planes amidst growing competition from Airbus, which had made inroads with both airlines during Boeing’s troubles surrounding the 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed satisfaction with Japan Airlines’ decision to continue its partnership with Boeing and re-select the Dreamliner as part of its fleet modernization efforts. The announcement coincides with the opening of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key trade event for the aviation industry.
Japan Airlines has committed to acquiring 10 Dreamliners, with an option for 10 additional units. Meanwhile, Korean Air has ordered 20 of the 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, with the possibility of ordering 10 more 787-10s.
This announcement follows reports earlier in the year indicating that Airbus had made sales to both airlines. Notably, Japan Airlines purchased 11 A321neo jets from Airbus, marking a shift as it was their first purchase of a single-aisle aircraft from a manufacturer other than Boeing. This transaction came during a period of significant challenges for Boeing, particularly related to the 737 Max scandal.
Similarly, Korean Air’s orders for Airbus wide-body jets were perceived as a rejection of Boeing’s 777X, which is only now nearing regulatory approval. Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, praised Korean Air for choosing Boeing’s advanced widebody planes, emphasizing the long-standing relationship between the two companies and their mutual commitment to sustainability and growth.