Boeing has announced significant orders for its large aircraft, securing commitments for up to 80 of its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This announcement was made on the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event for the aviation industry. Japan Airlines will acquire 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has ordered twenty 777-9 models and twenty 787-10 planes, also with the option for 10 more 787-10s.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed satisfaction with the renewed partnership with Japan Airlines, stating that the airline continues to modernize its fleet. This move comes after Airbus had previously gained ground with these carriers amidst Boeing’s 737 Max challenges earlier this year.
Past reports indicated that Airbus sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking a shift as it was the first time the airline purchased a single-aisle aircraft from a manufacturer other than Boeing. Similarly, reports emerged about Airbus selling wide-body jets to Korean Air, which predominantly operates Boeing aircraft. This order was seen as a response to the delays in the 777x’s regulatory approval process.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, highlighted the long-standing relationship with Korean Air and noted that the new orders will support the airline’s sustainability goals and growth initiatives moving forward.