Boeing has recently announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft, securing commitments from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This news follows a challenging period for Boeing after the fallout from the 737 Max incident, during which competitors like Airbus began to seize market opportunities among these carriers.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s head of sales operations, expressed appreciation for the partnership with Japan Airlines, emphasizing their choice to continue investing in the 787 Dreamliner as they enhance their fleet. Japan Airlines has committed to 10 Dreamliners with an option for 10 more. Korean Air has also made substantial commitments, ordering 20 of the 777-9 models and 20 787-10 aircraft, with options for 10 additional 787-10s.
The announcement aligns with the ongoing Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry calendar. Interestingly, the recent orders come after reports indicated that Airbus had made inroads with both Japan Airlines and Korean Air, leading to the purchase of Airbus A321neo jets, marking a notable shift as it was the first single-aisle plane ordered by Japan Airlines from a manufacturer other than Boeing.
Korean Air’s recent orders signal a commitment to Boeing, as their fleet has primarily consisted of Boeing aircraft for decades. Boeing’s Stephanie Pope highlighted that the selected airplanes will not only enhance capacity but also bolster the airline’s sustainability objectives and ongoing growth.
This recent development demonstrates Boeing’s resilience in regaining its footing in a competitive market, reaffirming vital relationships with significant airline partners. The renewed interest in Boeing’s aircraft suggests a positive outlook for the company as it continues to navigate challenges while focusing on long-term growth and innovation in the aviation sector.