Filed by KOSU News in Business.
July 20, 2011

Saying it’s the “largest aircraft order in aviation history,” American Airlines just announced that it plans to buy at least 460 fuel-efficient “narrowbody” passenger jets between 2013 and 2022.

The purchases are to be split between Boeing and Europe’s Airbus, the company says:

– “American has firm orders or letters of intent for a total of 200 additional aircraft from the 737 family [made by Boeing], with options for another 100 aircraft.”

– “American also will purchase a total of 260 Airbus aircraft from the A320 Family and will have 365 options and purchase rights for additional aircraft.”

According to the airline, “these new aircraft will allow American to reduce its operating and fuel costs.”

The Associated Press calls the deal “a major coup for Europe’s Airbus because American currently flies an all-Boeing fleet.”

The Dallas Morning News adds that “as part of the deal, American is getting about $13 billion in committed financing from the two companies, covering the first 230 deliveries.” And the newspaper adds that:

“Parent AMR Corp. disclosed the major purchase as it announced a $286 million loss for the three months ended June 30. In addition, AMR outlined its plans to spin off its American Eagle regional carrier to AMR shareholders in coming months.”

[Copyright 2011 National Public Radio]