Aircraft

Flight International online news 09:30GMT: Air New Zealand has placed firm orders for  two Boeing 787-8 aircraft in addition to the two it already has on order.

  
 
The announcement comes as the airline prepares for the delivery of the first of eight new B777-200ER aircraft this Friday.

ANZ Chief Executive Officer Rob Fyfe said the carrier has been guaranteed firm delivery slots for the two additional aircraft.

"This is a most desirable position for us to be in given the unprecedented sales success of the Boeing 787 model and enables us to plan for the airline's long-term needs," he said.

"Being one of the first airlines to introduce the 787 will enable us to provide a superior, first to market experience for our customers and enable Air New Zealand to consider new routes beyond its current network."

ANZ said it plans to have all its eight B777-200ER aircraft in service by early 2007 and introduce the B787 aircraft during 2010 / 2011.

ROSS BENTLEY/LONDON