FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom,
July 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing
[NYSE: BA] and Korean Air announced today the airline's intent to
purchase up to 50 of Boeing's highly fuel-efficient widebody
airplanes, including 20 777-9s and 20 787-10s with options for 10
more of the largest 787 Dreamliner variant.
Korean Air's selection of the 777-9 and 787-10 supports planned
growth and renewal of its fleet in size, range and capacity to
reach high-demand markets in Europe and North
America, as well as popular regional routes within
Asia. The carrier will leverage
the market-leading efficiency and versatility of these widebody
jets to enhance its fleet while adding flexibility to its global
network ahead of its anticipated 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."
When finalized and posted to Boeing's Orders & Deliveries
website, Korean Air will be the latest customer to purchase the
world's largest and most fuel-efficient twin engine jet.
The 777-9 can seat 426 passengers in a two-class configuration
with a range of 13,500 km (7,285 nautical miles) and the 787-10 can
carry 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 features advanced technologies from the 787 Dreamliner
family, including new carbon-fiber composite wings and engines that
will enable the airplane to achieve 10% better fuel efficiency, CO2
emissions and operating costs than the competition. Meanwhile, the
fuel efficiency of the 787 has helped operators avoid more than 169
billion pounds in CO2 emissions since entering service.
Recently rated the #2 airline in the world by
airlineratings.com, Korean Air continues to optimize its global
route network and looks to maintain its status as a leading global
carrier. The airline will feature new business class suites and
Wi-Fi capability onboard its new 787-10s, further enhancing its
award-winning onboard service.
Korean Air's Aerospace Division currently supplies components
for the 787 program, including the model's unique raked wing-tip.
The supplier also produces parts for a number of Boeing airplanes
including the 737 MAX, 767 and 777.
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops,
manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products
and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a
top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global
supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and
community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating
for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a
culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and
integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at
boeing.com/careers.
Contact
Boeing Media Relations
media@boeing.com
Korean Air Global Communications
globalpr@koreanair.com
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