Farnborough Airshow orders top $25 billion

[July 21, 2010]  FARNBOROUGH, England (AP) -- Canadian plane manufacturer Bombardier says Australian flag carrier Qantas Airways has ordered seven Q400 turboprop airliners in a deal worth $218 million at list prices.

The deal announced Wednesday adds to a flurry of orders from airlines and leasing companies at the Farnborough International Airshow. The total now exceeds $25 billion, marking a resurgence in commercial aviation.

Separately, Airbus said Thai Airways has made a commitment to buy seven A330-300s worth $1.48 billion at catalog prices. Airbus Chief Salesman John Leahy said he expects the deal to be firmed up by the end of the summer.

Bombardier also received orders at Farnborough from luxury carrier Vistajet, Qatar Airways and undisclosed Russian customers.

[Associated Press; By EMMA VANDORE and JANE WARDELL]

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