It seems the intention to order has turned into a firm order, with Korean Air ordering 33 Airbus A350 aircraft.
Korean Air Airbus A350 – Rendering, Airbus.
The firm order covers 33 of the Airbus A350 family. The confirmed split is:
- 27 A350-1000 (the stretch variant)
- 6A350-900 (the launch variant)
Airbus notes the additional range of the A350 will allow the airline to operate to new long-haul destinations – with the airline noting the range of the aircraft being able to operate the Seoul – New York route, thus giving options on the way.
Meanwhile, Korean Air will use this order to supplement the airline’s long-term fleet operations as it gradually retires its older aircraft, as well as preparing to integrate Asiana Airlines (when all the authorities are satisfied).
The airline has not disclosed any interiors or seating suppliers at this time.
In Quotes
Jason Yoo, Chief Safety and Operating Officer and EVP at Korean Air said
“The A350’s exceptional range, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort make it a great fit for our global network,”
“We are confident that the introduction of the A350 to our fleet will drive operational efficiencies and elevate the overall travel experience for our passengers.”
Benoit de Saint Exupéry, EVP Sales, Commercial Aircraft, Airbus said:
“This order from Korean Air is another major endorsement for the A350 as the world’s long range leader. The airline will benefit from new levels of efficiency across its operations, with significantly reduced fuel consumption and carbon emissions. The A350 will also be the perfect platform for the carrier to take its in-flight product and world class service to new heights. We thank Korean Air for its ongoing confidence in Airbus and its products, and look forward to seeing the A350 flying in the carrier’s iconic livery.”
Confirmed growth
In addition to the agreement to purchase 33 A350s, Korean Air plans to introduce 50 Airbus A321neos, 10 Boeing 787-9s, 20 Boeing 787-10s, and 30 Boeing 737-8s.
For the airline, the upcoming order will give options with their diversified fleet as to how they operate it (which will only grow when the Asiana Airlines fleet merger is completed).
How it will deploy them, as well as what older aircraft will fall by the wayside is a different question – and one that will be interesting to watch.
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