US Airways firmed up its May commitment for 20 A350s, Airbus announced. No engine choice was announced for the aircraft, which will be delivered between 2011 and 2014. US Airways operates nine A330s, which have cockpit commonality with the A350.

Boeing delivered to Air France the first 777-300ER incorporating enhancements that improve overall fuel efficiency by 1.4%. This equates to an annual fuel savings of approximately 200,000 gal., according to the manufacturer. The improvements result from a modification to the GE90-115B by GE, drag reduction via modification of the vortex generators and air induction systems for the environmental control systems, and weight savings that include lighter weight ECS ducts and main deck floor panels.

Innovative Solutions & Support and ABX Air, the former air arm of Airborne Express that now operates independently, have teamed up to offer operators of 757s and 767s a flat panel display retrofit. The two achieved an FAA STC for the conversions. Under a partnership, ABX will provide installation and pilot training while IS&S will supply the LCDs and STC.

Consortium of Chinese airlines is negotiating an approximately $5 billion purchase of at least 70 new A320s. The deal includes Air China, China Eastern Airlines and China Southern Airlines and is expected to be signed during Premier Wen Jiabao's visit to France this week, Reuters reported. The Chinese government ordered 70 737s on behalf of its airlines during meetings with US government officials last week (ATWOnline, Nov. 22).

East Star Airlines, a Wuhan-based startup, signed a letter of intent yesterday for the purchase of 10 A320s directly from the manufacturer plus a firm lease deal with GE Commercial Aviation Services for an additional 10. The agreements reportedly are worth $1.48 billion. The 10 purchased aircraft will be delivered in 2009-10. The carrier will begin taking delivery of the leased A320s in the second quarter of next year. All of the aircraft will be powered by CFM56-5Bs.