Etihad Airways has placed orders with Airbus and Boeing which could add more than 200 aircraft to its fleet.

Worth a total of $43 billion, it comprises 100 firm orders, 55 options and 50 purchase rights in a combination of Boeing and Airbus aircraft.

The twin orders see the carrier sign contracts for 55 Airbus aircraft worth $12 billion 45 Boeing for $9 billion.

When delivered, the airline will have a fleet of 150 aircraft.

The Abu Dhabi-based national airline of the United Arab Emirates signed contracts for 20 Airbus A320s, 25 A350s and 10 A380 double decker aircraft plus options on 20 further aircraft and purchase rights for 35 more.

Additionally, Etihad unveiled orders for 35 B787s and 10 777-300ERs at the Farnborough International Airshow. There are also options for a further 25 Boeing 787s and 10 Boeing 777s.

In addition, the carrier has agreed purchase rights for a further 10 787s and five 777s.

Deliveries of both the Airbus and Boeings will begin in 2011 and be completed in 2020. Etihad currently has a fleet of 38 aircraft.

A key selection criterion in the deal has been the environmental performance of the aircraft.

Chief executive James Hogan said: “This is a momentous day for Etihad Airways and Abu Dhabi. It reflects the strength and pace of economic growth in the Emirate and the integral role Etihad will play in Abu Dhabi’s future.

“That future will see planned investments in infrastructure and projects within the Emirate likely to exceed $200 billion during the next 10 years, an aggressive tourism push and enormous residential development. We are extremely proud to play a leading role in realising these exciting plans in the years ahead.

“The size of our order also mirrors the rising prominence of the Middle East and its increasing emergence as a new focal point of global aviation. The Gulf is also a natural air bridge between East and West offering the fastest air links for travellers and freight forwarders.”

Hogan added: “The new generation Boeing aircraft we have ordered are amongst the most fuel efficient and will help maintain Etihad’s fleet as one of the youngest and greenest in the sky.”

*See linked FlyDubai story.

by Phil Davies