Boeing Wins Big... But Airbus Sells A Few, As Well

At retail, it's already a deal worth more than $3 billion -- yep, with a 'b'.

Cathay Pacific confirmed Wednesday it's ordered 16 Boeing 777-300ERs (file photo of type, below), buying twelve of the extended range widebodies and leasing four more. The big Boeings come as part of a potential 36 aircraft deal for the American aerospace manufacturer, which if all additional purchase options are exercised would be the largest ever for the Hong Kong-based carrier.

The aircraft will be delivered between September 2007 and July 2010, according to Reuters.

While Boeing came out ahead on the deal, Airbus was able to push some of its planes, as well. Although its A340-600 lost out to the Boeing widebody, Cathay Pacific did agree to lease three smaller, twin-engined A330-300s from leasing company ILFC and the European aerospace consortium. The A330s will enter service in 2008.

Cathay Pacific says it will use the A330s on regional routes, and the Boeing aircraft will help the Asian carrier expand its routes into North America.

FMI: www.boeing.com, www.airbus.com, www.cathaypacific.com