Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle airplanes, securing commitments for up to 80 units from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This development, revealed on the first day of the Farnborough International Airshow, indicates Boeing’s response to competition from Airbus, which had gained traction among these carriers following issues with Boeing’s 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for Japan Airlines’ decision to continue its partnership with Boeing, highlighting the importance of the 787 Dreamliner in the airline’s fleet modernization efforts. Japan Airlines plans to acquire 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10.
Korean Air has opted for 20 of the 777-9 models and 20 787-10s, also with the option for 10 more 787-10s. This decision comes shortly after it was reported that Airbus had sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking the airline’s first purchase of a single-aisle aircraft from a manufacturer other than Boeing. Additionally, Airbus secured several wide-body jet sales to Korean Air, traditionally dominated by Boeing jets, signaling shifting dynamics in the market.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, stated that the selection of Boeing’s largest and most efficient widebody airplanes will enhance Korean Air’s global capacity. She emphasized that Boeing aircraft have been vital to Korean Air over the last 50 years, and the introduction of the 777X and 787 Dreamliner aligns with the airline’s goals for sustainability and growth.