Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes, securing commitments from Japan Airlines and Korean Air for up to 80 aircraft. This announcement was made on the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry. Japan Airlines is set to acquire 10 Dreamliners, with the option to purchase 10 additional units, while Korean Air has placed an order for 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also with an option for 10 more 787-10s.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for the longstanding partnership with Japan Airlines, highlighting their decision to modernize their fleet with the Dreamliner. This development comes after Airbus had previously made inroads with both airlines following challenges faced by Boeing, particularly with the 737 Max.
The reference to a longstanding partnership is notable, as it follows a Reuters report indicating that Japan Airlines had opted to purchase 11 A321neo jets from Airbus, marking a shift in their single-aisle aircraft sourcing. Similarly, Bloomberg reported earlier that Korean Air placed orders for several Airbus wide-body jets, raising questions about their relationship with Boeing, especially as the 777X awaits regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, emphasized the importance of Boeing aircraft in Korean Air’s operations over the past 50 years, stating that the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will aid the airline’s sustainability and growth objectives.