Korean Air has announced its intention to purchase over 100 Boeing aircraft, marking the largest deal in South Korea’s aviation history. The announcement came shortly after a meeting between South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and US President Donald Trump in Washington. According to Korean Air, the deal includes 103 next-generation aircraft from Boeing, valued at approximately $50 billion, with delivery scheduled through the end of 2030.
The aircraft purchase order comprises 20 Boeing 777-9s, 25 Boeing 787-10s, 50 Boeing 737-10s, and eight Boeing 777-8F freighters. The agreement also includes spare engines from GE Aerospace. This deal surpasses the company’s previous agreement in March to purchase up to 50 Boeing aircraft, valued at around $32 billion.
The signing of the agreement in Washington was overseen by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and South Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. The meeting between President Trump and President Lee Jae-myung aimed to discuss bilateral relations, following recent trade deals involving significant investments in the United States.
Boeing has faced challenges in recent times, including manufacturing backlogs and safety concerns. In June, a London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad, resulting in the loss of 241 lives. A preliminary investigation report indicated that fuel to the jet’s engines was cut off moments before impact, leading India and Singapore to order their airlines to examine fuel switches on several Boeing models.
Korean Air’s significant investment in Boeing aircraft underscores the company’s commitment to expanding its fleet and enhancing its services. The deal is expected to have a positive impact on the aviation industry, with potential benefits for both Korean Air and Boeing. As the delivery of the new aircraft is scheduled to take place over the next several years, the company will likely focus on integrating the new planes into its fleet and addressing any safety concerns.
