Korean Air Announces Commitment to Purchase Up to 50 Boeing Widebodies
South Korea's flag carrier, Korean Air, has announced its intent to purchase up to 50 widebody airplanes from Boeing. The order includes a commitment for 20 777-9 passenger jets and 20 787-10 Dreamliners, with options for an additional ten of the largest variant of the Dreamliner.
This significant investment in new aircraft is part of Korean Air's fleet renewal strategy to enhance operational efficiency and significantly reduce carbon emissions. The airline will be the latest customer to purchase Boeing's world-leading twin-engine jet, the 777-9.
The order for up to 30 787-10 jets nearly doubles Korean Air's current order book for the Dreamliner ahead of its planned merger with Asiana Airlines. The delivery of these new aircraft is expected to start later this decade.
Boeing's widebody airplanes have been in high demand, with Korean Air joining a growing list of customers that include Emirates, Qatar Airways, and United Airlines. These purchases represent a vote of confidence for Boeing as it continues to work through certification flight tests and manufacturing challenges.
Korean Air's CEO, Walter Cho, expressed his confidence in Boeing's ability to pull through its current challenges: “If I wasn't assured, I would not have ordered it,” he said. “I know Boeing will pull through whatever it is they're going through right now, and I have full confidence in Boeing.”
The 777X jets are worth around $198 million each after discounts, making this a substantial investment for Korean Air. The airline had earlier considered ordering competing Airbus A350 aircraft but ultimately decided on Boeing's offerings.
Boeing and Korean Air are expected to announce the deal at the Farnborough Airshow on Monday.
