Boeing has announced significant orders for its large aircraft, indicating a strong comeback after facing challenges from rival Airbus. On Monday, the company revealed it secured orders for up to 80 of its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle planes from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This move comes after Airbus made inroads with these carriers following the issues surrounding Boeing’s 737 Max earlier this year.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed gratitude to 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.”
The announcement coincided with the opening of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key industry event. Japan Airlines has ordered 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air has committed to 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also with the option to buy 10 more 787-10s.
This development is particularly noteworthy in light of a Reuters report earlier this year that detailed Japan Airlines’ purchase of 11 A321neo jets from Airbus, marking the first time it acquired a single-aisle aircraft from a manufacturer other than Boeing. The A321neo directly competes with the 737 Max, which was undergoing a significant scandal and production slowdown at that time.
In addition, Bloomberg reported similar sales of wide-body jets by Airbus to Korean Air, raising concerns about potential competition for Boeing, especially regarding the 777x, which is nearing regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, commented on the Korean Air order, saying, “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.”