Boeing has made significant strides in securing orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft. The company announced on Monday that it has received orders for up to 80 planes from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This development follows recent competitive moves by Airbus, which had made inroads with these airlines after Boeing faced challenges with its 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, the head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for the enduring relationship with Japan Airlines, noting their selection of the 787 Dreamliner to modernize their fleet.
These announcements coincide with the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry. Japan Airlines has ordered 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has requested 20 of the 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, along with an option for another 10 787-10s.
The reference to a “long-standing partnership” highlights a shift reported in March, where Japan Airlines purchased 11 A321neo jets from Airbus, marking its first acquisition of a single-aisle aircraft from a competitor other than Boeing. At the same time, it was reported that Airbus had delivered several wide-body jets to Korean Air, traditionally an operator of Boeing aircraft. This move was interpreted as a potential rejection of Boeing’s 777x model, which has been pending regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, emphasized the significance of Korean Air’s recent orders, reflecting the airline’s commitment to expanding its global network with Boeing’s most efficient widebody jets. She underscored the long-standing role of Boeing aircraft in Korean Air’s operations and their contribution to the airline’s objectives for sustainability and growth.