Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft, securing commitments from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. On Monday, the aerospace giant confirmed orders that could total up to 80 planes, signifying a robust comeback after challenges posed by rival Airbus.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s head of sales operations, expressed appreciation for the ongoing partnership with Japan Airlines, which will acquire 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10. Meanwhile, Korean Air has committed to 20 models of the 777-9 and 20 of the 787-10, also with options for 10 more of the latter.
This announcement coincides with the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, an important event in the industry. The partnership emphasizes Boeing’s resilience, notably after reports earlier this year revealed that Airbus had sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking the airline’s first purchase of a single-aisle aircraft from a competitor.
Additionally, it was reported that Airbus had also secured sales of wide-body jets to Korean Air, signaling a shift in the airline’s typical Boeing-heavy fleet.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, stated her gratitude for Korean Air’s selection of Boeing’s largest and most efficient widebody aircraft, highlighting the long history of collaboration between the two companies. Pope emphasized that the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will be vital in supporting Korean Air’s aspirations for sustainability and growth in the future.