Airlines

Korean Air eyes on big deal with B777X Aircraft at Farnborough Airshow

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Boeing is close to finalizing a significant deal to sell approximately two dozen 777X jets to Korean Air, with an estimated value ranging from $4 billion to $6 billion. As reported by Reuters.

Industry sources suggest that the agreement could be concluded as early as the Farnborough Airshow in July. Korean Air, South Korea’s largest airline, has been engaged in discussions about reverting to Boeing for its long-haul aircraft needs.

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This follows a surprising decision in March to order 33 A350 jets from Boeing’s European competitor, Airbus. Sources indicate that the potential order could involve between 20 and 30 of the 777X aircraft. These jets are priced at about $198 million each after standard market discounts, as per Cirium Ascend’s estimated delivery prices.

When approached, a spokesperson for the airline confirmed, “We are discussing with manufacturers but nothing has been confirmed yet.”

The move to review and potentially expand its fleet comes at a time when Korean Air is also focused on acquiring nearly two-thirds of its smaller domestic rival, Asiana Airlines, for approximately $1.4 billion.

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The European Union granted approval for this merger in February, and Korean Air anticipates U.S. regulatory approval by the end of October. Following Airbus‘ breakthrough with Korean Air, Reuters reported in April that Korean Air was considering a new Boeing order concentrated on the 777X, which is an advanced version of the 777 mini-jumbo.

If the deal proceeds, it would signify a strong return to Boeing for Korean Air and reinforce the airline’s long-haul capabilities with the latest in aviation technology.

Airlines

Sanctions & Engine Issues Ground Half of Russia’s A320neo fleet

Russia’s aviation sector, already strained by Western sanctions, faces another setback as nearly half of its Airbus A320neo family aircraft are grounded due to unresolved engine issues.

This development highlights the growing challenges for russia commercial aircraft in maintaining their fleets under the weight of global restrictions and limited access to spare parts.

Out of the 66 Airbus A320neo and A321neo jets in Russia, 34 are now out of service, according to the Kommersant business newspaper. These planes are powered by engines manufactured by Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX Corporation.

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The engines are affected by a previously identified defect in the metal used for certain parts, prompting accelerated inspections and maintenance.

Sanctions have compounded the issue, blocking the supply of essential components from major manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus. Without proper maintenance, experts warn that these aircraft may face decommissioning as early as 2026.

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Airlines like S7, which operates a significant portion of these grounded jets, plan to conserve the engines for future use during peak travel seasons. However, reports suggest that over 20 of S7’s Airbus planes have engines that have already reached the end of their operational lifespan. Recently, russia seeks assistance from kazakhstan’s airlines to bolster its domestic flights.

While some A320neo and A321neo planes in Russia are equipped with French-made LEAP engines, which are seen as less problematic, the challenges remain daunting.

The situation underscores the long-term impact of sanctions on Russia’s aviation sector and the increasing difficulties in keeping its modern fleets operational.