Korean Air has placed an order with Boeing for over 50 widebody aircraft, including 20 777-9s and 20 787-10s with options for 10 additional 787s. The addition of the Boeing 777-9 and 787-10 aircraft marks a significant milestone in our strategic objective to expand and upgrade our fleet,” said Walter Cho, Chairman and CEO of Korean Air. “This investment underscores our commitment to providing a best-in-class flying experience. These new airplanes will elevate passenger comfort and enhance operational efficiency, while significantly reducing carbon emissions, supporting our long-term commitment to sustainable aviation.” The airline will deploy the aircraft on routes across North America and Europe as well as high density routes within Asia. The aircraft are expected to enter service before the next decade.
Slow But Steady Growth For The Boeing 777-9 Family Of Aircraft
The Boeing 777-9 widebody variant that Korean Air ordered is an aircraft that has been plagued with certification delays as Boeing works out production issues. The 777-9 is part of the 777X family of aircraft which is aimed at replacing the legacy 777 family of aircraft. The 777X including the 777-9 feature shared components from the 787 Dreamliner including composite wings and fuel efficient engines. So far sales have been slow as the aircraft is yet to enter into revenue service however, orders have been placed from British Airways, Emirates, Etihad, Ethiopian and Lufthansa. In Asia operators such as ANA and Cathy Pacific have placed orders for 777X variants. Boeing is optimistic with Korean Air’s 777-9 order saying, “We are honored Korean Air has selected our largest, most efficient widebody airplanes to add capacity to its global network,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Boeing airplanes have played an integral role with Korean Air over the past 50 years, and the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will continue to support the airline’s long-term goals for sustainability and continued growth.”