'30 Trillion Won, Largest Ever'... Korean Air to Purchase 50 Boeing Aircraft

On the 22nd (local time), Korean Air announced that it signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Boeing at the Farnborough International Airshow held at Farnborough Airport in Hampshire, southern England, for the purchase of up to 50 aircraft, including 20 units of the 777-9 and 30 units of the 787-10 (including 10 options).

The signing ceremony was attended by Cho Won-tae, Chairman of Hanjin Group, Stephanie Pope, President of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, and other officials from both companies.

The 777-9 and 787-10 are medium-to-large aircraft capable of long-haul flights to regions such as the Americas and Europe, and are expected to play a central role in Korean Air's fleet following the integration with Asiana Airlines.

According to Korean Air, the 777-9 is regarded as the most stable and efficient aircraft among the 777 series. Its wingspan, made of carbon composite materials, measures up to 71.8 meters, which is longer than existing 777 series aircraft, improving fuel efficiency by more than 10%.

The operating range exceeds 13,000 km, enabling direct flights from Incheon International Airport to all regions of the United States. The 777-9 has the longest fuselage among the 777 series at 76.7 meters, typically accommodating 400 to 420 seats.

The 787-10 is the largest model in the 787 series, capable of carrying 15% more passengers and cargo than the currently operating 787-9. Its fuel efficiency has improved by more than 25% compared to the existing 777-200. Korean Air explained that this is the most efficient and environmentally friendly model among Boeing aircraft currently in service.

The contract for the introduction of Boeing aircraft is valued at approximately 30 trillion KRW, reportedly the largest aircraft purchase contract Korean Air has ever signed in terms of amount.

Chairman Cho Won-tae stated, "The introduction of Boeing 777-9 and 787-10 will be a significant milestone in Korean Air's strategic goal of expanding and upgrading its fleet. Through this aircraft purchase contract, we will enhance passenger comfort and operational efficiency while significantly reducing carbon emissions, supporting long-term efforts for sustainable management."

Meanwhile, in addition to the Boeing 777-9 and 787-10, Korean Air plans to introduce 33 Airbus A350 series aircraft and 50 A321neos, bringing a total of 203 new aircraft by 2034.