A $12 billion deal with Airbus and Boeing for the purchase of more than 100 new aircraft was signed by Korean Air at the Paris Air Show.
The carrier will purchase 50 Boeing 737 MAX-8 (30 firm, 20 options) and two 777-300ERs.
Korean Air will also add 50 Airbus 321neo aircraft (30 firm, 20 options) to its fleet.
The aircraft will be delivered between 2019 and 2025 as he airline replaces its old 737 fleet increases capacity to address growing demand.
The deals represent the largest fleet order made in Korean Air’s and Korean aviation history.
“The biggest-ever order in Korean Air’s history will be a stepping stone for the airline’s evolution, and enhance flight safety by replacing older mid-long haul aircraft with newer and more fuel-efficient ones,” the airline said.
The new 737s will deliver 20% lower fuel use than the first next-generation 737s.
The A321neo aircraft will also bring a “step-change” reduction in fuel consumption of over 15%, longer range capability and reduced maintenance costs, as well as significantly reduced carbon emissions, according to the airline.
Korean Air will also introduce new generation aircraft such as the B747-8i and B787-9 over the next few years.