Korean Air and Japan Airlines have announced plans to introduce Airbus A350s.
Korean Air will purchase 33 A350s whereas Japan Airlines has also announced the purchase of 21 Airbus A350-900, along with 11 A321neo aircraft, and 10 Boeing 787 aircraft, as part of its fleet renewal plan.
Korean Air Orders 33 Airbus A350s
Korean Air has signed an agreement with Airbus for the purchase of 33 Airbus A350s. The deal, which includes 27 A350-1000s and six A350-900s, is valued at USD 13.7 billion, though airlines receive steep discounts on such large orders.
The Korean flag carrier stated that it is investing in its future by ordering new airplanes. The A350s will eventually replace the airline’s older models and help them meet their sustainability goals. This order also prepares Korean Air for the upcoming merger with Asiana Airlines.
“The order will supplement the airline’s long-term fleet operations as it gradually retires its older aircraft. The procurement of the next-generation, eco-friendly A350 is not only aligned with the airlines’ sustainability efforts but also is seen as preparation for the integration of Asiana Airlines.”
Korean Air Spokesperson
In addition to the agreement to purchase 33 A350s, the Korean flag carrier plans to introduce 50 Airbus A321neos, 10 Boeing 787-9s, 20 Boeing 787-10s, and 30 Boeing 737-8s.
As stated in its press release, the carrier will continue to prioritize fleet modernization and reduction of carbon emissions through the operation of new aircraft and other sustainability activities.
Japan Airlines Orders 42 Aircraft from Airbus and Boeing
Japan Airlines has also announced the purchase of 21 Airbus A350-900, along with 11 A321neo aircraft, and 10 Boeing 787 aircraft, as part of its fleet renewal plan.
Japan Airlines plans to deploy an additional 20 Airbus A350s on international routes, as the current A350s in operation form the backbone of its domestic operations. Moreover, JAL will introduce one more Airbus A350-900 (configured for domestic operations) to replace the A350-900 aircraft lost in January 2024.
“These new aircraft introductions aim to enhance and expand the capacity of JAL’s international operations, with a primary focus on regions such as North America, Asia, and India where future growth is expected.”
Japan Airlines spokesperson
Additionally, the airline plans to expand its existing fleet of 50 Boeing 787 series aircraft by adding 10 Boeing 787-9s. Furthermore, in a move to modernize its medium-sized fleet, JAL will introduce 11 Airbus A321neo aircraft, marking the airline’s first order into this aircraft model.
These A321neo planes will be deployed on routes, including those to and from Haneda Airport, commencing in 2028.
For domestic routes, the Japanese carrier will initiate the replacement of its Boeing 737-800 fleet with 21 new Boeing 737-8 aircraft, starting from 2026.