Carrier's Superjumbo Fleet Grows To Eight Planes

Korean Air announced Tuesday the airline will expanding its upcoming A380 fleet with the purchase of three more superjumbos. This firm order is in addition to the five A380s ordered by Korean Air in 2003.

Starting in 2010, Korean Air will introduce the A380 on high density traffic routes from Seoul to the US west coast, with subsequent destinations likely to include cities on the US east coast and Europe. Deliveries to Korean Air for the three additional aircraft are scheduled to take place in 2012 and 2013.

With Korean Air's additional order, Airbus has 192 firm orders, from 16 customers for the A380 program.

"Our decision to purchase the A380 aircraft is in line with our vision to become a global leading carrier providing the best quality of service to our passengers," said Yang Ho Cho, Chairman and CEO of Korean Air. "The A380 is a comfortable, environment-friendly aircraft for the 21st century and it will enable Korean Air to provide Excellence in Flight to our customers."

"We greatly value our partnership with Korean Air, and it is particularly satisfying to see our first and oldest customer outside Europe confirming his confidence in the A380 for its fleet renewal and growth strategy," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers.

"The advanced technology and eco-efficient A380 will provide Korean Air with lower operating costs, greater range and outstanding new standards of comfort for its passengers."

FMI: www.airbus.com, www.boeing.com