Variety Of Models Modernize South Korean Flag Carrier’s Fleet

Boeing and Korean Air announced the airline has committed to purchase 103 Boeing commercial jets to modernize its fleet, benefit from the fuel efficiency of the aircraft, and to grow the airline as it integrates operations with Asiana Airlines during the next several years.

The commitment represents Korean Air’s largest-ever aircraft order and Boeing’s largest widebody order from an Asian carrier. The order is also Korean Air’s first order for the 777-8F freighters and will support the manufacturer’s 135,000 jobs across the U.S.

The order consists of these models:

• 20 777-9
• 25 787-10
• 50 737-10
• 8 777-8F

The agreement was signed during the U.S.-Korea Business Roundtable “Partnership for a Manufacturing Renaissance” presided over by Howard Lutnick, U.S. Secretary of Commerce and Kim Jung-kwan, South Korea’s Minister of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE).

Walter Cho, Chairman and CEO of Korean Air said, "This agreement with our long-standing partners, Boeing and GE, marks a pivotal moment for Korean Air. Acquiring these next-generation aircraft is the core of our fleet modernization strategy, delivering significant gains in fuel efficiency and enhancing the passenger experience across our global network. This investment is also a critical enabler for our future as a merged airline with Asiana, to ensure that our combined carrier is one of the most competitive airlines in the industry."

This latest agreement brings Korean Air’s commitment to Boeing aircraft in 2025 to more than 150 units, after the airline’s order in March for 20 777-9s and 20 787-10s with options for 10 additional 787-10s.

Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes said, "We are honored to strengthen our partnership with Korean Air through this landmark agreement, which reflects the value and capabilities of Boeing's market-leading airplane family. As Korean Air transitions to a larger unified carrier, we are committed to supporting the airline's growth with one of the world's most efficient fleets."

FMI:  www.boeing.com/ , www.koreanair.com/