Korean Air announced a landmark deal with Boeing, committing to the purchase of 103 new fuel-efficient jets. This record-breaking order, the largest in the airline’s history, will be a cornerstone of the carrier’s plan to modernize its fleet and support its growth as it integrates with Asiana Airlines.
The commitment, announced on August 25, 2025, during a high-profile business roundtable in Washington, includes a diverse mix of Boeing’s most advanced aircraft:
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20 777-9 widebody jets
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25 787-10 Dreamliners
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50 737-10 single-aisle jets
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8 777-8 Freighters
This agreement will be Korean Air’s first-ever order for the 777-8 Freighter. The massive order is also Boeing’s largest widebody order from an Asian airline and is expected to support an estimated 135,000 jobs across the United States.
A Strategic Move for a Modernized Fleet
This deal follows a previous order in March 2025 for 40 widebody jets, bringing Korean Air’s total orders and commitments for Boeing aircraft this year to over 150.
“This agreement…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.”
The new aircraft are designed to optimize efficiency and reduce emissions. For example, the 777-9 and 737-10 are expected to reduce fuel use and emissions by 20% compared to the planes they will replace. The 777-8 Freighter, touted as the world’s largest and most capable twin-engine freighter, will offer 30% better fuel efficiency.
“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,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
The agreement was signed at a business roundtable presided over by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and South Korea’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, Kim Jung-kwan.
Once finalized, the deal will grow Korean Air’s total Boeing order book to 175 aircraft, adding to its current fleet of 108 Boeing jets. The airline’s aerospace division also plays a significant role in manufacturing components for several Boeing models, including the 787 Dreamliner.
