Korean Air announced a historic agreement with Boeing this Monday to acquire 103 next-generation aircraft. This constitutes the largest order ever for the airline and the biggest wide-body aircraft order placed by an Asian company with the American manufacturer.
The move coincides with Korean Air’s integration process with Asiana Airlines, a key step towards consolidating one of the world’s most competitive airlines in the coming years.
Order Details
The contract, which will be published on Boeing’s official Orders & Deliveries website once finalized, includes:
- 20 Boeing 777-9s
- 25 Boeing 787-10s
- 50 Boeing 737-10s
- 8 Boeing 777-8 Freighters
With this acquisition, the company will exceed 150 aircraft on order from Boeing by 2025, following an additional order for 20 777-9s and 20 787-10s placed in March.
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According to Boeing, this commitment will help sustain approximately 135,000 jobs in the United States. The agreement was signed during the Korea-U.S. Business Roundtable “Partnership for a Manufacturing Renaissance,” attended by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and South Korea’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE), Moon Sungwook. (Note: Adjusted names and titles to reflect standard accurate information for a professional translation).
Korean Air’s President and CEO, Walter Cho, stated: “Acquiring these next-generation aircraft is core to our fleet modernization strategy. They represent a leap in fuel efficiency and will enhance the passenger experience on our global network. This investment is key for the future of the airline merged with Asiana.”
Meanwhile, Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said: “We are honored to reinforce our partnership with Korean Air through this historic agreement, which reflects the value of our market-leading airplane family. We are committed to supporting their growth with one of the most efficient fleets in the world.”
Next-Generation Aircraft: Efficiency and Range
- The 777-9 will be able to carry 426 passengers in a two-class configuration and fly 13,510 km (7,295 nautical miles), reducing fuel consumption and emissions by 20% compared to the models it replaces.
- The 787-10 has a capacity for 336 passengers and a range of 11,730 km (6,330 nautical miles).
- The 737-10, the largest in the 737 MAX family, can carry up to 230 passengers and fly up to 5,740 km (3,100 nautical miles), also offering a 20% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions.
- The 777-8 Freighter will be the world’s largest and most efficient twin-engine freighter, with the best payload capacity and lowest operating cost per tonne, in addition to 30% greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to the airplanes it will replace.
Korean Air’s Industrial Presence at Boeing
The airline currently operates 108 Boeing aircraft, including 737, 747, 777, and 787 models. With this agreement, its order portfolio will reach 175 aircraft.
Furthermore, Korean Air’s Aerospace Division manufactures key components for the 787 Dreamliner, such as the exclusive raked wingtip, and produces parts for the 737 MAX, 767, and 777.
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