CINCINNATI - Korean Air in Seoul has selected GE Aerospace engines to power its recently announced purchase of 20 Boeing 777-9 and up to 30 787-10 aircraft, as confirmed by GE Aerospace. The airline placed an order for GE’s GEnx and GE9X engines and signed a maintenance agreement for the GE9X, marking the first time a South Korean carrier has selected the GE9X engine, GE Aerospace in Cincinnati says.
The GE9X, developed for the Boeing 777X family, features a 134-inch composite fan, the largest in the industry, along with fourth-generation carbon fiber composite fan blades and a composite fan case. The engine features a 27:1 pressure-ratio high-pressure compressor, along with ceramic matrix composite components that can withstand higher temperatures than metal alloys, resulting in improved performance and lower emissions. The GE9X delivers a 10% improvement in specific fuel consumption compared to the GE90-115B.
"We’re grateful for the Korean Air team putting its trust in us again," said Russell Stokes, president and CEO of Commercial Engines and Services at GE Aerospace. "Today’s order represents the next chapter in our long-standing partnership with Korean Air and reaffirms our commitment to support their successful fleet upgrade and expansion."
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The GEnx engine, which powers the Boeing 787 and 747-8 aircraft, also incorporates advanced materials and design elements, including a composite fan case and fan blades, as well as a lean-burning twin-annular pre-swirl (TAPS) combustor.
Both the GEnx and GE9X engines are certified to operate on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blends. Korean Air’s includes GE and CFM International-powered aircraft such as the GE90-110B/115B, LEAP-1B, and CFM56-7B. The airline also employs GE Aerospace’s Safety Insight flight data monitoring system, using advanced analytics and automation to enhance operational safety.
