French PM Announces Indian Airlines' Deal for 43 'Liners

French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin announced at this week's Aero-India exposition in Bangalore, that, "Indian Airlines has chosen to buy 43 Airbus planes." The agreement wasn't disclosed by either the airline or Airbus, though, because details need to be agreed to. It's more of a political statement until the deal is sealed, as Raffarin almost noted, when he said, "I am of course hopeful that this choice will soon be made official."

A spokesman for Indian Airlines told The Associated Press, "The board has approved a proposal to acquire 43 planes. Yes, it's Airbus. It was cleared in March 2002 and has gone to the government for approval. We are awaiting the reply."

The Canadian Press says that the $2.1 billion deal covers an undisclosed mix of A-319, -320, and -321s. Raffarin also noted thatAirbus would like to sell some long-haul aircraft, and reminded showgoers that Airbus offers the A-340. He also hinted that there may be some trades available, A-380 construction jobs specifically, if Indian stuck with his country's planes.

FMI: www.airbus.com