Korean Air announced its intent to buy 20 Boeing 777-9s and 20 Boeing 787-10s with options for 10 more of the largest 787 Dreamliner variant. The 777-9s and 787-10s, with their capability of long-haul flights to regions such as North America and Europe, are expected to play an important role after Korean Air’s merger with Asiana Airlines, according to the announcement.
The airline also announced the delivery of its first Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner and on July 25 will use it on the Seoul Incheon-Tokyo Narita route. In addition, the airplane will debut the carrier’s new Prestige Suites 2.0 business class. Each of the 36 seats in the business class cabin is independent and has aisle access with an open top. Each seat fully reclines into a bed.
The seat length in the cabin has been extended to 78 inches, with a seat pitch of 46 inches and width of 21 inches, according to Korean Air. Each seat also offers dedicated compartments for personal items, 60W “ultrafast” USB-C charging and wireless charging.
Walter Cho, CEO of Korean Air, said the addition of the Boeing 777-9 and 787-10 aircraft “marks a significant milestone in our strategic objective to expand and upgrade our fleet.” This investment, he said, “underscores our commitment to providing a best-in-class flying experience.” These new airplanes, he said, “will elevate passenger comfort and enhance operational efficiency, while significantly reducing carbon emissions, supporting our long-term commitment to sustainable aviation.”
With the addition of the Boeing 777-9s and 787-10s, Korean Air plans to have a total of 203 next-generation, eco-friendly aircraft in its fleet by 2034, including 33 A350s, 50 A321neos and 20 Boeing 787-9s, according to the carrier.