Monday, July 22, 2024
Reading Time: 2 minutesBoeing and Korean Air announced today the airline’s plan to purchase up to 50 of Boeing’s highly fuel-efficient widebody airplanes. This includes 20 777-9s and 20 787-10s, with options for an additional 10 of the largest 787 Dreamliner variant.
Korean Air’s choice of the 777-9 and 787-10 aircraft underpins its strategy for fleet expansion and modernization, enhancing size, range, and capacity to serve high-demand markets in Europe and North America, along with popular regional routes within Asia. The airline aims to utilize the superior efficiency and versatility of these widebody jets to upgrade its fleet and introduce greater flexibility to its global network in preparation for its expected merger with Asiana Airlines.
“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.”
Once finalized and published on Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries website, Korean Air will become the latest customer to acquire the world’s largest and most fuel-efficient twin-engine jet.
The 777-9 has a seating capacity of 426 passengers in a two-class configuration and a range of 13,500 km (7,285 nautical miles), while the 787-10 can accommodate up to 336 passengers with a range of 11,730 km (6,330 nautical miles).
“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.”
The 777-9 incorporates cutting-edge technologies from the 787 Dreamliner family, such as new carbon-fiber composite wings and engines, enabling it to achieve 10% better fuel efficiency, reduced CO2 emissions, and lower operating costs compared to competitors. Since entering service, the fuel efficiency of the 787 has helped operators avoid over 169 billion pounds of CO2 emissions.
Korean Air, recently ranked as the #2 airline in the world by airlineratings.com, continues to optimize its global route network to maintain its position as a leading global carrier. The airline’s new 787-10s will feature new business class suites and Wi-Fi capability, further enhancing its award-winning onboard service.
Korean Air’s Aerospace Division supplies components for the 787 program, including the distinctive raked wing-tip. The division also produces parts for several Boeing models, including the 737 MAX, 767, and 777.
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