Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. The company revealed on Monday that it secured orders for up to 80 jets as it seeks to strengthen its position after losing ground to French competitor Airbus, which recently gained orders from both airlines amidst Boeing’s challenges earlier this year.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s sales operations head, expressed appreciation for the partnership with Japan Airlines, highlighting their decision to stick with the 787 Dreamliner as they modernize their fleet.
This announcement coincides with the first day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a prominent industry trade event. Japan Airlines is set to take delivery of 10 Dreamliners, with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has ordered 20 of the new 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also with an option for 10 more 787-10s.
The recent orders underscore a competitive atmosphere, particularly after Airbus previously sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines—marking a significant shift as it was the first time the airline purchased a single-aisle aircraft from a manufacturer other than Boeing. Similar trends were observed when Airbus sold multiple wide-body models to Korean Air, traditionally dominated by Boeing aircraft.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, expressed pride in Korean Air’s choice of Boeing’s largest and most efficient aircraft to enhance its operations. She emphasized the long-standing relationship between Boeing and Korean Air, and the role of the 777X and 787 Dreamliner in supporting the airline’s sustainable growth objectives.