(Photo Airbus)
KOREAN AIR has signed a deal with Airbus for 33 Airbus A350s worth $13.7bn. The mammoth order consists of six -900s and 27 of the larger -1000 variants.
The Seoul-based carrier said the order would supplement its long-term fleet operations as it gradually retires older aircraft. The state-of-the-art airliner would also align with its sustainability efforts and assist in the preparation for the integration of Asiana Airlines. The latter is already an A350 operator with 15 -900s already in service and a further 15 on order, comprising both the -900 and -1000 variants. Regulatory approval for the merger has taken longer than expected, although the companies hope to have the deal finalised by the end of 2024.