Korean Air Introduces First Next-Generation Eco-Friendly Aircraft 'Boeing 737-8'

Fuel Savings of Over 15% Compared to Similar Aircraft
Approximately 13% Reduction in Carbon Emissions Compared to 737NG

Korean Air Boeing 737-8.
Photo by Korean Air

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunseok Yoo] Korean Air announced on the 14th that the first Boeing 737-8 aircraft arrived at Gimpo Airport the day before.

The newly introduced first 737-8 aircraft will undergo prescribed procedures such as an airworthiness inspection to verify the aircraft's inherent safety before commencing full-scale operations from the 1st of next month. Starting with this, a total of six Boeing 737-8 aircraft are planned to be introduced this year. Korean Air signed a contract with Boeing in November 2015 to introduce a total of 30 units of the 737-8 model.

The 737-8 aircraft is a next-generation eco-friendly aircraft that maximizes efficiency, reliability, and operational capability. It is equipped with an engine incorporating advanced technology. Cutting-edge technologies have been applied, such as reducing air resistance compared to existing wings. Through this, it can save more than 15% fuel compared to existing aircraft of the same class. Seat operating costs can also be reduced by 12%. Carbon emissions are reduced by about 13% compared to the 737NG (Next Generation).

Korean Air also participates in the production of parts for the 737-8 aircraft, supplying winglets, which are wingtip devices designed to reduce drag and carbon emissions, and flap support fairings that cover the actuators of the lift-enhancing flaps. These are produced at the Aerospace Business Headquarters located in Busan.

Isan Mounier, Senior Vice President of Boeing Commercial Airplanes Sales and Marketing, said, "The 737-8 will contribute to Korean Air's continuous growth through improved efficiency and operational cost improvements. We expect Korean Air's transport capabilities to be further strengthened with the delivery of the 737-8, and Boeing will spare no support to ensure the 737-8 fulfills its role in Korean Air's fleet."

Korean Air plans to make company-wide efforts to ensure the safe operation of the 737-8 aircraft. A dedicated 737-8 maintenance team composed of veteran mechanics will be operated. Additionally, highly experienced captains will be prioritized to ensure safe operations. Separately, Korean Air sent its mechanics to overseas airlines already operating the 737-8 for hands-on training to enhance maintenance capabilities. They also produced an in-house maintenance guidebook used for training, ensuring that mechanics can perform standardized maintenance under any circumstances.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport also plans to conduct special management for the safe operation of the 737-8 aircraft. Along with Korean Air and other airlines that will operate the 737-8 model in the future, the ministry will closely monitor overall operations and provide support for safe operations, including ▲observing airline simulator training ▲inspection audits ▲accompanying test flights.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.