Korean Air Orders Boeing 777X & 787s

Korean Air has confirmed reports by officially announcing a mammoth order for aircraft from Boeing on Day 1 of the 2024 Farnborough Airshow.

The airline’s purchase includes two aircraft types from the American planemaker’s long-haul portfolio and is seen as a way to grow its operations.

Korean Air committed to 20 777-9s from the 777X family, a type that is still awaiting certification. Furthermore, the airline reaffirmed its commitment to the 787 Dreamliner with orders for 20 of the largest 787-10.

The purchase of the 787-10 includes options for ten more units, should the airline wish to activate these. The order for this variant comes simultaneously during celebrations of receiving the first unit from a previous commitment. Korean Air will first deploy the 787-10 between Seoul Incheon and Tokyo Narita.

The first 777X is expected to be delivered in 2028. This delivery timeframe factors in the variant’s uncertified nature, which recently saw test flights with the FAA aboard commence. This is crucial to getting the final approval amid a hopeful 2025 first delivery.

Korean Air’s purchase of Boeing equipment comes after months of speculation and reaffirms the airline’s commitment to the planemaker that has endured its troubles.

The South Korean carrier’s purchase arrives at an important time as work continues to complete the all-important merger with Asiana Airlines.

Both airlines are awaiting approval from the U.S. after receiving the required yes from several other governing bodies despite the needed changes.

Purchases like the one for Boeing long-haul jets come as the airline looks to modernise the fleet and align its portfolio with Asiana Airlines. Months earlier, an order was finalised for the A350 type, used routinely with Asiana Airlines.