Seoul, August 26 - Korean Air, South Korea’s flagship carrier, announced a historic $50 billion order for 103 Boeing aircraft on August 25, 2025, marking the largest single purchase in the airline’s history. The deal, formalized during a summit in Washington between South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and U.S. President Donald Trump, includes a mix of 20 Boeing 777-9s, 25 Boeing 787-10s, 50 Boeing 737-10s, and eight Boeing 777-8F freighters, valued at approximately $36.2 billion. Additionally, Korean Air secured a $13.7 billion agreement with GE Aerospace for engines and a 20-year maintenance contract, along with $690 million for 19 spare engines from GE Aerospace and CFM International. The announcement, attended by Korean Air CEO Cho Won-tae, Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO Stephanie Pope, and GE Aerospace’s Russell Stokes, underscores a strategic alignment with U.S. aerospace interests and aims to bolster Korean Air’s global competitiveness. The aircraft are scheduled for phased delivery through 2030, supporting the airline’s expansion plans and fleet modernization efforts.
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The timing of the order coincides with high-level trade discussions between South Korea and the United States, reflecting a broader trend of countries announcing significant Boeing purchases during negotiations with the Trump administration. This deal builds on Korean Air’s earlier commitments, including a 2024 memorandum of understanding for 20 777-9s and 20 787-10s with options for 10 additional aircraft, and a March 2025 agreement valued at $32.7 billion for Boeing jets and GE engines. Approximately 80% of the new aircraft will replace older planes in Korean Air’s fleet, while the remainder will support expanded routes to the U.S., Latin America, and South America. The order also facilitates the integration of Asiana Airlines, a subsidiary acquired by Korean Air, by re-equipping its fleet with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft. This move is expected to enhance operational efficiency and align with Korean Air’s goal of maintaining one of the world’s most advanced fleets.
The deal represents a significant boost for Boeing, which has secured a string of major orders in recent months despite past challenges. Korean Air’s CEO Cho Won-tae, who recently visited a Boeing factory in the U.S., expressed confidence in the planemaker’s ability to deliver, citing the strategic importance of the partnership. The agreement is also a win for U.S. aerospace exports, as highlighted by U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who emphasized the administration’s commitment to reshoring advanced manufacturing jobs. The inclusion of GE Aerospace engines and long-term maintenance services further strengthens ties between Korean Air and the U.S. industry, positioning the airline to meet growing demand for international travel while supporting economic ties between the two nations. The deal’s scale, surpassing Korean Air’s previous orders, underscores its ambition to remain a leader in the global aviation market.
For Korean Air, established in 1969 and a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance, this order is a pivotal step toward expanding its global footprint. The acquisition of next-generation aircraft will enhance its ability to serve new destinations while improving fuel efficiency and passenger experience. The integration of Asiana Airlines, combined with this massive fleet investment, positions Korean Air to strengthen its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving industry. The deal also reflects a broader geopolitical context, where trade agreements and economic partnerships are increasingly tied to major industrial transactions. By aligning with Boeing and GE Aerospace, Korean Air is not only modernizing its operations but also reinforcing the strategic alliance between South Korea and the United States, fostering long-term economic and commercial collaboration.