Airbus looks to secure Libya aircraft orders

Airline Industry Information, Oct 6, 2004

AIRLINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION-(C)1997-2004 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

European aircraft manufacturer Airbus is seeking to start business with Libya now that sanctions on the North African country have been lifted.

Airbus is hoping to sell aircraft to Libya's national carrier Libyan Arab Airways which has been unable to update its fleet due to world trade embargoes for over a decade. The airline has signalled its intention to buy 24 new aircraft worth USD800m to renew its fleet.

A spokesperson for the airline said that it wanted aircraft and services from both Airbus and its US-based rival Boeing. Both manufacturers are likely to offer cut-price rates to attract the airline and secure future business and maintenance contracts which are highly lucrative, reports the Daily Post.

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