Etihad Airways (EY) and Air Berlin (AB) have announced plans to join their Boeing 787 programs, saving millions of dollars for both carriers.

Flybe (BE) signed a contract with Brussels Airlines (SN) to provide two Bombardier Q400 aircraft on a wet-lease basis for two years starting March 25.

EADS CEO Louis Gallois said the company is “devoting maximum attention to solving the A380 wing rib feet issues,” discovered earlier this year.

The FAA said the total number of aircraft in the US commercial airline fleet (including regional carriers) stood at an estimated 7,185 at the end of 2011, down 29 aircraft compared to the end of 2010.

Malaysia Airlines (MAS) has unveiled the design and specifications of its new flagship aircraft, the Airbus A380-800, which is set to enter the MAS fleet in July.

Thai Airways’ (TG) first Airbus A380 launched its maiden flight March 6 following completion of the airframe assembly and system tests in Toulouse, France.

Warsaw-based EuroLOT has signed a firm order to acquire eight Bombardier Q400 NextGen aircraft, plus 12 options.

Air France KLM Group reported a net loss for its shortened nine-month 2011 financial year of €442 million ($580.5 million), reversed from a net profit €980 million in the year ago-period.