Boeing has made significant strides by securing orders for up to 80 of its renowned 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. The announcement, made on Monday, highlights the company’s determination to recover after facing challenges in the market, particularly from Airbus, which had previously gained traction with these airlines following issues with Boeing’s 737 Max.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s sales operations chief, expressed his satisfaction with Japan Airlines’ decision to reaffirm its commitment to the Dreamliner as part of its fleet modernization efforts. The announcement coincides with the commencement of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry.
Japan Airlines is set to take delivery of 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10. Meanwhile, Korean Air has ordered 20 of the 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, with a potential for 10 more 787-10s.
This development serves as a response to Airbus’s earlier engagements with both airlines. In March, it was reported that Airbus sold 11 A321neo jets to Japan Airlines, marking the first time the airline procured a single-aisle aircraft from a manufacturer other than Boeing. Additionally, Airbus reportedly sold several wide-body jets to Korean Air, a move seen as a slight against the Boeing 777X, which is nearing regulatory approval.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, expressed appreciation for Korean Air’s selection of Boeing’s most efficient wide-body aircraft, emphasizing the company’s longstanding relationship with the airline and its commitment to supporting their sustainability and growth objectives.