Cathay Pacific Airways announced Tuesday it will replace its economy-class fixed-back seats on long-haul aircraft in early December with new premium-economy class seats after passengers complained about discomfort.

Turkish Airlines Chairman Hamdi Topcu told ATW in Seattle on Tuesday that THY is “evaluating” proposals to order either 747-8s or A380s by year end. He said the carrier is also deciding whether to order additional 737-900s and is in talks with Airbus regarding a possible A320 order.

AerCap Holdings purchased 12 aircraft and eight engines in the third quarter while selling five aircraft and five engines, the Amsterdam-based lessor said in a statement issued Monday. During the three months, it signed agreements to lease two A320s with LAN Airlines and one 737 with Canada's Air North (both aircraft were delivered during the period). It also entered into 12 engine lease agreements for nine CFM56s and three CF6s.

Sahaab Aircraft Leasing, a subsidiary of Jazeera Airways Group, placed four A320s on long-term leases with Virgin America, the companies announced Sunday. The contract is valued at $155 million. This is the first lease to a US-based customer by Sahaab, which was acquired by Jazeera Airways Group in February 2010 (ATW Daily News, Feb. 17).