The New Nation - Internet Edition

BUSINESS REPORT

Etihad Airways has placed yesterday one of the largest aircraft orders in commercial aviation history at the Farnborough International Airshow in the UK. The total deal for up to 205 wide-body and narrow-body planes is worth approximately

US $43 billion, at list prices. It comprises 100 firm orders, 55 options and 50 purchase rights in a combination of Boeing and Airbus aircraft. Etihad Airways' Chairman Dr Sheikh Ahmed bin Saif Al Nahyan and Chief Executive James Hogan, announced the orders on the first day of the air show signing separate contracts with Boeing Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Jim McNerney and also with Airbus President and Chief Executive Officer, Tom Enders. The agreement with Airbus comprises firm orders for 55 aircraft: 20 A320 aircraft. The engine type is subject to further discussions. 25 A350 aircraft, powered by Rolls Royce Trent XWB engines 10 A380 aircraft.

The engine type is subject to further discussions. There are also options for five A320s, 10 A350s and five A380s together with purchase rights for a further 15 A320s, 15 A350s and five A380s. The agreement with Boeing comprises firm orders for 45 aircraft: 35 B787 aircraft. The engine type is subject to further discussions. 10 B777-300ER aircraft, powered by GE90 engines. There are also options for 25 B787s and 10 B777-300ERs and purchase rights for a further 10 B787s and five B777s.

The new aircraft are scheduled for delivery between 2011 and 2020 for Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways and when delivered will give the national airline of the United Arab Emirates a fleet of more than 150 aircraft. James Hogan said, "This is a momentous day for Etihad Airways and Abu Dhabi and represents one of the largest aircraft orders in commercial aviation history. It reflects the strength and pace of economic growth in the Emirate and the integral role Etihad will play in Abu Dhabi's future."