Emirates Airline Places Record Boeing Order

They're trying to convince Boeing to let them install more seats

(NEWSER) - If you’re flying on Ryanair, remember what dad always said and do your business before takeoff. Europe’s biggest airline, ever on the cutting edge of new ways to squeeze money out of its flights, had been considering charging passengers to use the bathroom on its flights, but now it’s decided to instead just remove two of the three bathrooms on each plane entirely to make room for more seats, the Independent reports More»

(NEWSER) - The wait for Boeing’s long-delayed first flight of its 787 Dreamliner became even longer today. The company announced it would miss its late June target because part of the plane needs to be reinforced, the Wall Street Journal reports. Boeing stock fell 7% on the news. The 787, Boeing's first new jet in more than a decade, was supposed to make its maiden flight in late 2007 but it has been plagued by production problems. More»

Will re-tool tanker to compete for Pentagon refueling contract

(NEWSER) - With its 787 Dreamliner delayed, Boeing is turning to its 14-year-old 777 to compete with Airbus’ next plane, Bloomberg reports. At the Paris Air Show today, Boeing said it may make a new wing for the 777 in an effort to boost fuel efficiency, and will also showcase a 777-based tanker to rejoin the battle with Airbus for a Pentagon contract. More»

Tragedy, economic losses hang over 100th show

(NEWSER) - Clouds hang over the launch of the 100th anniversary Paris Air Show today as investigators continue to pore over the wreckage of Air France flight 447. Bad business news combines with the tragedy to make this year's event less than stellar. Russia's first post-Soviet jetliner is expected to upstage Western projects delayed by financial hiccups. In addition, the annual order showdown between Boeing and rival Airbus will lack its usual luster since the world's airlines are predicting $9 billion in losses next year. More»

Bargain-hunting airline invites Boeing, Airbus to duke it out

(NEWSER) - Hoping to score a good deal by exploiting the recession, United Airlines has called on Boeing and Airbus to bid on an order for up to 150 new jets, the Wall Street Journal reports. The plan could bring in $10 billion for one of the manufacturers, both of whom face cancellations and deferrals on orders. With aircraft makers often willing to go to great lengths to secure deals, the timing may prove a boon to United. More»