Boeing announced one of its largest plane orders of the year on Tuesday as African carrier Ethiopian Airlines agreed to buy five twin-aisle 777s worth USD$1.3 billion at list prices.
The deal marks a high spot in a difficult year for Boeing and rival Airbus as struggling airlines hold onto cash and defer or cancel many of the planes they already have on order.
As of July 21, Boeing had 106 plane orders on its books for 2009, but also 89 cancellations, leaving a total of only 17 net orders for the year.
In 2006 -- the peak of a three-year plane-buying boom -- Boeing notched up 1,413 net orders.
Ethiopian Airlines, which operates a Boeing-only fleet, will be the first African carrier to operate the 777-200LR (long range) planes.
The aircraft will be fitted with engines made by General Electric.