Korean Air Co., the leading flag carrier of South Korea, revealed plans on Thursday to acquire 33 Airbus A350 aircraft in a deal valued at $13.7 billion. The purchase, including 27 A350-1000s and six A350-900s, is part of the airline's strategy to update its fleet by retiring older planes and embracing more eco-friendly options.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the A350-1000 model, capable of carrying up to 410 passengers, boasts advanced composite materials that significantly reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions. This acquisition aligns with Korean Air's sustainability goals and preparations for its impending merger with Asiana Airlines, which has received approval from antitrust authorities in multiple countries and regions, pending a final nod from the United States. Additionally, Korean Air outlined its plans to incorporate 50 Airbus A321neos, 10 Boeing 787-9s, 20 Boeing 787-10s, and 30 Boeing 737-8s into its fleet as part of an extensive modernization initiative.