Japan Airlines and Boeing have announced the airline's purchase of up to 20 Boeing 787-9 aircraft at the Farnborough International Airshow on Monday. 
 

The purchase decision will see Japan Airlines add at least 10 Dreamliner aircraft, with additional purchase options for ten tenre 787-9 aircraft. 
 

Commenting on the decision, Japan Airlines Executive Officer of Procurement stated: "We are delighted to announce the addition of 787 Dreamliners to our fleet. 

This order underscores our commitment to accelerating the introduction of the modern and more fuel-efficient aircraft to deliver unparalleled service to our customers and further reduce CO₂ emissions.

We greatly appreciate Boeing's strong relationship and support, which has been instrumental in our efforts to modernize our fleet and expand our international routes."

How Will Japan Airlines Use Their Additional 787 Aircraft?

The Boeing 787 has been Boeing's go-to widebody aircraft over the past decade. With impressive fuel efficiency and a significant range, the 787 allows airlines like Japan Airlines to service far-away destinations while lowering operational costs. 
 

With the additional 787 aircraft added to their fleet, we could see the possibility of Japan Airlines beginning to serve new destinations across Asia, Europe, and North America. With the existing 787 aircraft, Japan Airlines opened new point-to-point markets, such as Tokyo to San Diego, Boston, and Bangalore.

Boasting a range of up to 7,565 nautical miles (14,010 km), it will be interesting to see if and how Japan Airlines decides to utilize its new Boeing 787 aircraft. 
 

Additional 787s to a Heavy Boeing Fleet

Japan Airlines has expanded its partnership with Airbus in the past few years, but the airline still relies on Boeing aircraft for most of its operations. 
 

As of July 2024, the Tokyo-based airline operates 42 Boeing 737-800s, 25 767-300ERs, 13 777-300ERs, 23 787-8s, and 22 787-9. Japan Airlines also has orders for 21 Boeing 737 MAX-8 aircraft, which are expected to be delivered in 2026.

On the Airbus side, the airline has 15 A350-900s and three A350-1000s, with orders placed for an additional 23 A350-900s, 10 A350-1000s, and 11 A321neo aircraft. 
 

Be sure to check back at the end of the week for a full roundup of all the action at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow!