Korean Air has agreed to purchase 103 new Boeing aircraft, the largest order ever for the airline and Boeing’s largest widebody order from an Asian customer.
In a statement, the South Korean flag carrier said its commitment is part of an effort to modernize its fleet with more fuel-efficient aircraft. The delivery of new aircraft will also help sustain growth as the airline integrates operations with former competitor Asiana, which it merged with last year, officials said.
The order was officially announced Monday at a meeting between U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and South Korean Trade and Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan. It includes 20 777-9s, 25 787-10s, 50 737-10s, and eight 777-8 freighters, the first Korean Air has ever purchased.
Boeing’s 777X series, to which the 777-9 and 777-8F belong, is currently undergoing testing as part of a long-delayed certification process. Earlier attempts at certification were set back by design problems and an “uncommanded pitch event” during a test flight in late 2020. Deliveries to the 777X’s launch customer, Lufthansa, have been pushed back to 2026.
Similarly, the 737 MAX 10 has faced significant delays in certification and may not be ready to enter commercial service until 2027 or 2028.
Still, Korean Air signaled its confidence in Boeing and said the manufacturer’s newest types will open a new chapter for its fleet and operations.
“This agreement with our long-standing partners, Boeing and GE, marks a pivotal moment for Korean Air,” said airline Chairman and CEO Walter Cho. “Acquiring these next-generation aircraft is the core of our fleet modernization strategy, delivering significant gains in fuel efficiency and enhancing the passenger experience across our global network.”
With this week’s deal, Korean Air’s order book with Boeing will grow to 175 aircraft in total.
In March, the carrier agreed to buy up to 50 widebody airplanes, including 20 777-9s and 20 787-10s, with options for 10 additional 787 Dreamliners.
Korean Air currently operates 108 Boeing aircraft, including 737s, 747s, 777s, and 787s.
In its own statement, Boeing said the new order will support an estimated 135,000 jobs across the U.S.
“We are honored to strengthen our partnership with Korean Air through this landmark agreement, which reflects the value and capabilities of Boeing’s market-leading airplane family,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “As Korean Air transitions to a larger unified carrier, we are committed to supporting the airline’s growth with one of the world’s most efficient fleets.”
