BA Divides Order Between Boeing and Airbus28.09.2007 00:02 BusinessLONDON (AP) -- British Airways made its largest aircraft purchase in nearly a decade, dividing the order between rivals Boeing and Airbus, the carrier said Thursday. The airliner ordered 24 Boeing 787 aircraft and 12 Airbus A380s. The $8.2 billion (5.8 billion euros) order at list prices of both the Airbus A380 superjumbo and the Boeing 787 Dreamliner will help Europe's third largest airline keep pace with Virgin Atlantic Airways. The airline also placed options for 18 of the Boeing planes and seven A380s, a big boost for the European planemaker. "British Airways is a company of global reference. To be chosen by British Airways for the large aircraft is a formidable springboard to demonstrate the quality of the A380," Louis Gallois, CEO of Airbus parent European Aeronautic Defence and Space Co. (OOTC:EADSY) , told The Associated Press in Paris. Delivery is expected between 2010 and 2014. British Airways, which is replacing its Boeing 747-400 fleet, said the A350, the 787 and Boeing's 777 would be considered for further orders. The carrier is trying to increase capacity on long-haul routes. Asked about the possibility on possible purchases of the A350, Gallois said, "I hope it will be possible but it's up to BA." Source: www.nytimes.comwww.alllee.com |
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