Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. The company revealed on Monday that it has secured orders for up to 80 aircraft following challenges from rival Airbus, which had made inroads with these carriers during the aftermath of the 737 Max incident earlier this year.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for Japan Airlines, stating, “We value our long-standing partnership with Japan Airlines and are pleased that they have re-selected the 787 Dreamliner as they continue to modernize their world-class fleet.”
This announcement coincides with the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, a significant event for the aviation industry. Japan Airlines is set to acquire ten Dreamliners with an option for ten additional aircraft, while Korean Air has ordered twenty 777-9 models and twenty 787-10 planes, also with an option for ten more 787-10s.
The mention of a long-standing partnership is particularly poignant given a report earlier this year that indicated a shift in Japan Airlines’ purchasing habits. In March, it was reported that the airline purchased eleven A321neo jets from Airbus, marking its first acquisition of a single-aisle aircraft from a manufacturer other than Boeing. The A321neo serves as a direct competitor to the 737 Max, which faced ongoing production issues due to previous scandals.
Similarly, Korean Air’s recent orders for wide-body jets from Airbus were seen as a departure, with most of its existing fleet being comprised of Boeing aircraft. Reports at that time suggested that the new orders might be a response to delays in the 777X’s regulatory clearance.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, stated, “We are honored Korean Air has selected our largest, most efficient widebody airplanes to add capacity to its global network. Boeing airplanes have played an integral role with Korean Air over the past 50 years, and the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will continue to support the airline’s long-term goals for sustainability and continued growth.”