Air Transport

Kenya Airways has placed an order for six Boeing 787-8s to use as replacements for its Boeing 767s.

Boeing says in a statement that the African carrier will take delivery of its first two 787s in 2010 followed by the remaining four in 2011.

No engine selection is mentioned - the airline has already opted for both General Electric and Rolls-Royce engines on other widebodies.

The new twinjets will be used to replace existing 767s, Boeing adds.

Kenya Airways currently operates 21 aircraft, including Boeing 737s, 767s and 777s. This year it also plans to add three 737-800s on lease from Singapore Aircraft Leasing Enterprise.

Boeing says it now has 28 customers for the 787, which is due to enter service in 2008, with 385 total orders and commitments.