Boeing has secured significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. On Monday, the aircraft manufacturer announced that Japan Airlines will acquire 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has ordered 20 units of the 777-9 model and 20 787-10 planes, also with an option for 10 more 787-10s. This development follows increased competition from Airbus, particularly after the issues surrounding Boeing’s 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for the long-standing partnership with Japan Airlines, highlighting their commitment to modernizing their fleet. The announcement coincides with the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, an important event for the aviation industry.
This news stands in contrast to earlier reports indicating that Airbus had managed to secure orders from both carriers. In March, it was reported that Airbus sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking a significant shift since it was the first acquisition of a single-aisle plane from a competitor. The A321neo serves as a rival to the 737 Max, which was facing substantial challenges during that period. Similarly, Korean Air had opted for a number of Airbus wide-body jets, undermining the position of the Boeing 777X, which is nearing regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, expressed honor at Korean Air’s choice of Boeing’s largest and most efficient widebody aircraft, emphasizing their long-standing role in the airline’s operations over the past five decades and the importance of the 777X and 787 Dreamliner in supporting Korean Air’s sustainability and growth objectives.