Airbus 'set to announce China A-380 deal'

Airbus is set to announce two orders for its giant A380 "SuperJumbo" from Greater China worth some US$3bn, the UK's Sunday Times reported. Citing industry sources, the paper said the deal would involve the sale of five aircraft to China's central government-run aircraft purchasing body, with an option to buy five more aircraft. A similar deal is also expected to be announced with Hong Kong-based carrier Cathay Pacific. According to the report the mainland Chinese order would likely be for aircraft for Air China and China Southern Airlines, both of which currently operate largely Boeing fleets. Such a deal would be a major foot in the door for Airbus, which has been eager to secure the first sale of its new aircraft in the world's fastest growing aviation market. An announcement of the deal is expected on Tuesday at Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, France, the paper said.