Korean Air (KAL) has ordered 25 Boeing aircraft, but has baulked at becoming a launch customer for the planned -8I passenger variant of the new 747-8 family.
The airline has placed orders for five 737-700/900s and 10 777-300ERs and 10 cargo aircraft - five 747-8Fs and five 777Fs. Deliveries will take place between 2009 and 2019, with the 737 order understood to include a single Boeing Business Jet. KAL has also taken options on four 777-300ERs, two 747-8Fs and two 737-900ERs.
The airline, which had been seen as a potential 747-8I customer, says that the 777-300ERs will replace the 747-400 passenger aircraft in its fleet that are being converted to freighters. "The 747-8Fs and 777Fs will further expand KAL's cargo capacity," it says.
Excluding KAL's 25 aircraft, Boeing has so far accumulated 822 orders this year. This compares with its record total of 1,002 orders for 2005.
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KAL's deal covers 25 Boeings, comprising passenger and cargo aircraft |
Source: Flight International
