Korean Air Expands Fleet with Boeing 777-9 and 787-10 Aircraft

Our Bureau - : Jul 23, 2024 - : 2:47 am

Boeing and Korean Air have announced the airline's intention to acquire up to 50 of Boeing's fuel-efficient widebody planes, including 20 777-9s and 20 787-10s, with options for an additional 10 of the largest 787 Dreamliner variants. Korean Air's choice...

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Korean Air's choice of the 777-9 and 787-10 aligns with its strategy to expand and renew its fleet, enhancing capacity for high-demand markets in Europe and North America, as well as popular regional routes within Asia. The airline aims to leverage the efficiency and versatility of these widebody jets to strengthen its fleet and add flexibility to its global network, particularly in anticipation of its planned 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," stated Walter Cho, Chairman and CEO of Korean Air. "This investment underscores our commitment to providing a best-in-class flying experience. These new aeroplanes will elevate passenger comfort and enhance operational efficiency, while significantly reducing carbon emissions, supporting our long-term commitment to sustainable aviation."

Once finalised and listed on Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website, Korean Air will become the latest customer of the world's largest and most fuel-efficient twin-engine jets.

The 777-9 can accommodate 426 passengers in a two-class configuration and has a range of 13,500 km (7,285 nautical miles), while the 787-10 can carry up to 336 passengers with a range of 11,730 km (6,330 nautical miles).

"We are honoured Korean Air has selected our largest, most efficient widebody aeroplanes to add capacity to its global network," said Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Boeing aeroplanes 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 advanced technologies from the 787 Dreamliner family, including new carbon-fibre composite wings and engines, which enable the aircraft to achieve 10% better fuel efficiency, lower CO2 emissions, and reduced operating costs compared to the competition. Additionally, the 787's fuel efficiency has helped operators avoid more than 169 billion pounds of CO2 emissions since entering service.

Recently rated the #2 airline in the world by airlineratings.com, Korean Air continues to optimise its global route network and aims 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 programme, including the model's distinctive raked wing-tip. The division also produces parts for various Boeing aeroplanes, including the 737 MAX, 767, and 777.