SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS RADIO) – United Airlines is making moves in the form of a massive order that will include, at a minimum, 200 brand-new Boeing airplanes. The only issue is that both models have seen recent criticism over reported problems.
The two models that the airline has ordered are the 737 Max, which was grounded by the FAA for 20 months following two fatal crashes, and the 787 Dreamliner, which saw the FAA halt deliveries from Boeing due to quality control problems.
The order is being praised by Boeing as a vote of confidence in the airplane manufacturer, after a tumultuous few years.
“The Boeing team is honored by United’s trust in our family of airplanes to connect people and transport cargo around the world for decades to come,” Stan Deal, the CEO of Boeing’s commercial aircraft division, said.
The deal with United is a big move for Boeing, which has continually been beaten out by its European rival Airbus as of late. But on Tuesday, Boeing announced orders for 571 commercial planes through November of this year.
This means the deal with United represents around 35% of the orders from the company. However, Airbus still sits ahead of Boeing in total plane orders with 825.
Event Still, United could up its purchases as while the order is currently for 100 twin-aisle 787 Dreamliners, an option is available to add another 100.
The 787 is often used for long-range overseas routes. United is looking to up its capabilities with demand for travel returning to normal and foreign restrictions being removed or lessened.
United CEO Scott Kirby shared with CNN that the order will help United be the “flag carrier of the United States and the leading airline of around the globe.”
The planes won’t be delivered all at once, but over the next 10 years, as United looks to replace many of its aging and older aircraft.
“This is just the next step in that path to replace some of our older 767s that are at the end of their life, but also to create growth opportunities for years to come in the international network for years to come,” Kirby said.
When it came to the problems that Boeing has faced concerning the planes, Kirby didn’t seem worried or hesitant. Instead, he said that a “few tough years made [Boeing] stronger,” praising the “great partnership” the companies have.
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