Korean Air Commits to Record Purchase of 103 Boeing Jets to Modernise Fleet

South Korea’s flag carrier, Korean Air, has announced its largest-ever order for Boeing aircraft, signalling a monumental step in its fleet modernisation and expansion strategy. The airline plans to purchase 103 new Boeing jets—including 20 Boeing 777-9s, 25 787-10s, 50 737-10s, and 8 777-8 freighters—to optimise fuel efficiency and enhance passenger experience across its global network.

This purchase marks the biggest widebody order by an Asian carrier in Boeing’s history and supports an estimated 135,000 jobs in the United States. The agreement aligns with Korean Air’s ongoing integration with Asiana Airlines, aiming to build one of the most competitive carriers in the airline industry.

A Fleet with Efficiency and Range

The new jets bring impressive performance enhancements:

• The Boeing 777-9 offers seating for 426 passengers in a two-class layout with a range of 13,510 km, reducing fuel consumption and emissions by 20% compared to the planes it replaces.
• The 787-10 Dreamliner accommodates up to 336 passengers with an 11,730 km range, known for its passenger comfort and efficiency.
• The 737-10, the largest in the 737 MAX family, carries 230 passengers and can cover up to 5,740 km with improved fuel efficiency, enabling Korean Air to serve more passengers on more routes at a lower operational cost.
• The 777-8 Freighter promises to be the world’s most capable twin-engine freighter with the highest payload and best fuel efficiency in its class.

Strengthening a Long-Standing Partnership

Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Aeroplanes, stated, “We are honoured to strengthen our partnership with Korean Air through this landmark agreement… committed to supporting the airline’s growth with one of the world’s most efficient fleets.”

Korean Air currently operates 108 Boeing jets, and with this order, its fleet backlog will grow to 175 aircraft, underpinning strong future growth.