KOREAN Air has finalised a purchase order for 25 airplanes valued at US$5.6 billion at list prices from US aircraft manufacturer, the Boeing Company.

The order includes 10 777-300ERs, five 747-8 freighters, five 777 freighters and five Next-Generation 737s. The deal also contains options for a further eight aircraft, namely four 777-300ERs, two 747-8Fs and two 737-900ERs.

"Introducing the next generation hi-tech airplane is one of the strategies to effect a strengthening of global competitiveness and enhance customer service," said Korean Air chairman Yang-ho Cho.

The 777-300ERs are intended to replace the 747-400 passenger airplanes Korean Air is converting to 747-400 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCF) while the 747-8 freighters and 777 freighters will provide additional air cargo capacity. The 737s will be deployed on domestic and regional routes.

A joint company statement described Korean Air as a "key" 747-400 Freighter operator and an important customer of the 747-400 BCF.

"Korean Air continues to develop a tremendous cargo base to complement its successful passenger operation," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president for sales, Larry Dickenson. "Our great relationship is built upon years of success and trust, as well as our ability to provide the airplanes that fit the airline's business model," he said.