Korean Air has just made a massive move in the aviation world by placing its largest-ever order for new aircraft. The airline is set to receive a whopping 103 new Boeing planes, spanning four different models. This order pushes Korean Air’s total aircraft orders past the 150 mark for 2025, building on an earlier order from March for 50 planes. This fleet expansion is a key part of Korean Air’s merger with Asiana Airlines, which aims to combine the two carriers into a single, more powerful fleet. After four years of negotiations, the deal was finalized in late 2024, with the new jets scheduled for delivery over the coming years.
Korean Air’s commitment to Boeing is as strong as ever, especially since they were one of the last airlines to operate the iconic Boeing 747. The latest order includes 50 of the 737 MAX 10, 25 of the 787-10 Dreamliner, 20 of the upcoming 777X widebodies, and eight 777-8F freighters. Earlier this year, they also ordered 20 twin-aisle 777X and up to 30 Dreamliners, marking a significant milestone for the airline. Walter Cho, Korean Air’s chairman and CEO, emphasized that this deal with Boeing and GE is crucial for their fleet modernization strategy, which focuses on fuel efficiency and enhancing the passenger experience. It’s also a vital step in ensuring the merged airline with Asiana remains competitive on a global scale.
With this new order, Korean Air’s total order book now stands at 175 airplanes, including 72 that were already on the books before this landmark deal. The agreement was signed during a business roundtable meeting called the “Partnership for a Manufacturing Renaissance,” attended by key figures like Howard Lutnick, US Secretary of Commerce, and Kim Jung-kwan, South Korea’s Minister of Trade, Industry, and Energy. Boeing estimates that this massive order will help sustain 135,000 jobs across the US. Plus, Korean Air’s Aerospace Division plays a significant role in Boeing’s supply chain, producing parts for several Boeing models. This partnership between Boeing and Korean aerospace has deep roots, dating back to 1948, with Boeing Korea officially established in 1988.
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Originally reported by Simple Flying Read More
