Korean Air is making history with the largest aircraft order in its fleet, confirming plans to purchase as many as 103 new Boeings. This marks not only the biggest deal in the history of South Korea’s flag carrier, but also the largest widebody aircraft order ever placed by an Asian airline.
According to Boeing, the agreement includes 20 Boeing 777-9s, 25 Dreamliner 787-10s, 50 single-aisle 737-10s, and eight 777-8 Freighters. Once finalized, the deal will represent Korean Air’s first order for the 777-8F, and is estimated to support around 135,000 jobs in the United States.
This is the airline’s second major order in 2025, following the purchase of an additional 40 widebody aircraft in March — 20 777-9s and 20 787-10s. With this commitment, Korean Air’s total orders and commitments with Boeing this year surpass 150 units, significantly accelerating its fleet modernization program.
Korean Air Chairman and CEO Walter Cho emphasized that this investment is a key part of the airline’s modernization strategy and preparation for its integration with Asiana Airlines, which will create one of Asia’s largest carriers. “The acquisition of these new aircraft forms the foundation of our future fleet, delivering significant fuel savings and enhancing the passenger experience across our global network,” said Cho.
Boeing stated that this landmark agreement underscores the value of its next-generation fleet. Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, highlighted that Boeing’s more efficient aircraft will enable Korean Air to strengthen its position as it transforms into a larger, unified carrier.
The new aircraft also bring significant technical advantages. The Boeing 777-9 can carry 426 passengers over a range of 13,510 kilometers while consuming 20 percent less fuel compared to the models it replaces. The Dreamliner 787-10 offers 336 seats with a range of 11,730 kilometers, while the single-aisle 737-10 can carry up to 230 passengers on short- and medium-haul routes with the lowest seat cost in its class. Notably, the 777-8 Freighter will become the largest and most efficient freighter in the world, offering 30 percent better fuel efficiency and emissions compared to older models.
Korean Air currently operates 108 Boeing aircraft, with 72 already on order. Once this agreement is finalized, its total backlog will rise to 175 aircraft. The airline is thereby firmly positioning itself in the global race for a more efficient, modern, and environmentally sustainable fleet, as its consolidation with Asiana Airlines enters the final stage.
