Aero-Instruments said yesterday that it secured FAA Parts Manufacturer Approval for its 0851HL-AI Pitot Probe, which it claimed can replace Thales pitot probes on Airbus aircraft. Airbus last week told airlines that Thales pitot probes should be replaced with Goodrich models on all A330s/A340s as a "precautionary measure" and EASA said it will issue a similar order shortly (ATWOnline, Aug. 3).

Aer Lingus Group reached agreement with Airbus on deferred delivery of its new long-haul aircraft and terminated lease agreements on two A330s ahead of schedule. One leased A330 will leave the fleet in October, 18 months ahead of schedule, and the second will depart next March, 14 months ahead of schedule. EI already has returned two leased A330s this year and now plans to operate eight long-haul aircraft until 2013. The carrier placed an order in June 2007 for six A330-300Es and six A350s with A330 deliveries scheduled for 2009-11 and the A350s in 2014-15.

Baltia Air Lines, a New York JFK-based startup intending to serve Eastern European countries from the former Soviet Union, said it has signed a letter of intent to purchase one 747. It did not identify the source of the aircraft.

Thai Airways took delivery of an A330-300 last week in Toulouse, the 1,000th A330/A340 family aircraft delivered by Airbus. Thai operates 15 A330-300s, four A340-500s and six A340-600s.

Air India is discussing the cancellation of six 777 orders with Boeing, the airline confirmed to several news organizations.

Bombardier Aerospace said it received an order for five Q400 NextGen aircraft plus five options from an airline that requested to remain unidentified. Firm order is worth $159 million at list prices.

Emirates took delivery of its 78th 777, a -300ER, making it the world's largest 777 operator. It has 28 more on order.

Japan Airlines' last 747 Classic, a -300, operated its final flight yesterday from Honolulu to Tokyo Narita. Aircraft was in service for 26 years. JAL took delivery of its first 747-100 in 1970 and operated a record 65 747 Classics in 1987-89. The -300 will be replaced by a 777-300ER.