Korean Air to purchase 103 Boeing jets to modernize fleet

Boeing and Korean Air announced on Monday that the airline has committed to purchasing 103 Boeing jets in an effort to modernize its jets. According to Boeing, this is its largest widebody order from an Asian carrier, as well as the largest order Korean Air has ever made. The new jets are to support the airline's growth as it integrates operations with Asiana Airlines. Boeing estimates that the deal will support 135,000 jobs across the United States. "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." The order includes: 20 777-9s 25 787-10s 50 737-10s 8 777-8 Freighters Korean Air also ordered 20 777-9s and 20 787-10s back in March, meaning it has ordered more than 150 units this year. Once the deal is finalized, it will have 175 aircraft in its orderbook due to previous commitments. Currently, the airline operates 108 Boeing aircraft. RELATED STORIES: Piper Aircraft announces largest aircraft order in company history First-time customer orders 50 Bombardier jets Boeing begins production of the 777-8 FreighterAviation needs more than just new pilots; here is what Boeing says about it "This agreement with our long-standing partners, Boeing and GE, marks a pivotal moment for Korean Air," said Walter Cho, chairman and CEO of Korean Air. "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. This investment is also a critical enabler for our future as a merged airline with Asiana, to ensure that our combined carrier is one of the most competitive airlines in the industry."