Boeing has made a significant announcement regarding new orders, securing deals for up to 80 of its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This development comes right at the start of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry. The new orders indicate Boeing’s resilience and strategy to regain market share after facing competition from Airbus, particularly following issues surrounding the 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s head of sales operations, remarked on the importance of their long-term relationship with Japan Airlines, highlighting their decision to opt for the 787 Dreamliner as they modernize their fleet. Japan Airlines committed to purchasing 10 Dreamliners with the option to acquire 10 more, while Korean Air ordered 20 of the 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, with an additional option for 10 more 787-10s.
This announcement comes on the heels of previous reports that indicated a shift in the market, wherein Airbus managed to secure sales from both Japan Airlines and Korean Air. In March, Japan Airlines purchased 11 A321neo jets from Airbus, a move that marked a departure from exclusively buying from Boeing when it comes to single-aisle aircraft. Korean Air also made headlines by acquiring wide-body jets from Airbus, a decision interpreted as a challenge to Boeing’s offerings.
Stephanie Pope, who leads Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, expressed gratitude toward Korean Air for selecting their newest and most efficient widebody aircraft, reinforcing Boeing’s longstanding partnership with the airline over the last 50 years. She emphasized that the 777X and 787 Dreamliner are essential to supporting Korean Air’s sustainability and growth goals.
This move is not only a win for Boeing but also a sign of healthy competition within the aviation industry, highlighting an evolving landscape where airlines assess their fleet needs, sustainability strategies, and partners with a forward-thinking lens. As airlines continue to modernize, Boeing’s ability to secure these orders suggests a renewed confidence and emphasis on innovation in a competitive market.
Overall, this development provides a hopeful perspective for Boeing’s recovery and showcases their responsiveness to market demands, setting the stage for future growth and collaboration in the aviation sector.