AWAS Friday announced an order for 31 firm 737NGs plus 19 purchase rights, raising to 39 the number of aircraft the lessor has on order with Boeing. The order is worth $2.3 billion at list prices. President and CEO Franklin Pray called the deal "an appropriate way for AWAS to finish off what has been a very exciting and redefining year for the company . . .This time a year ago AWAS would not have been in a position to place an order of this magnitude." Based in Dublin, it currently owns and manages 315 aircraft.

The grounding and disposal of its 27 Q400s continues to be a major issue at SAS Group, which is faced with choosing a replacement while pursuing compensation from Bombardier and deciding what to do with the employees charged with operating the turboprops, CEO Mats Jansson said during last week's Star Alliance meeting in Beijing.

Boeing said Friday that it is "set to begin full production" of 777 freighters, noting that its engineers "have completed more than 90% of the design work for the new cargo airplane." Assembly of the first 777F will start at its Everett plant "in early 2008," the manufacturer said. "Suppliers already have begun production of parts and major components for Boeing's newest freighter," it said in a statement. "The first 777 freighter will be delivered to launch customer Air France in the fourth quarter of 2008."

United Airlines remains focused on its product and on improving the customer experience rather than investing in new aircraft because it sees its fleet as "relatively young," Chairman and CEO Glenn Tilton told ATWOnline during the Star Alliance meeting in Beijing. He said the 104-strong widebody fleet is not the first priority for replacement. He said he sees the 777-200LR as an excellent aircraft for UA and he also will have a look at the 747-800. Regarding its 767s, UA is evaluating the installation of blended winglets.

GE Commercial Aviation Services yesterday announced that it has ordered 53 737-800s and two 777-300ERs collectively valued at $4.5 billion. The massive order includes an exercise of existing options and was listed last week by Boeing as placed by an unidentified customer. "This additional order with Boeing will allow GECAS to help our customers around the world benefit from. . .leading-edge operational efficiency," President and CEO Henry Hubschman said.