Safair has ordered two Boeing 737-700s as part of its planned acquisition of 10 Next Generation 737s announced in early 2000. The Johannesburg-based company says it is negotiating to place the aircraft, which are not expected to be delivered before 2003, with customers based outside of "South Africa, but within Africa". Special Aircraft Transport International (SATIC) is poised to deliver its fifth and last A300-600ST Beluga to Airbus Industrie. The aircraft will join the existing Beluga fleet transporting major assemblies between the various Airbus production sites in Germany, France, the UK and Spain. Sabena has retired its last Boeing 737-200 Adv. The airline's 737 fleet, which is being replaced by new Airbus A320 family aircraft, still includes 15 "Classics". Air Gulf Falcon has reportedly donated an ex-Mandarin/China Airlines Boeing 747SP to Iraqi Airways. Qantas has acquired a Rolls-Royce RB211-powered Boeing 747-400 on 17 month lease from British Airways. Birmingham, UK-based Maersk Air has exercised options on two Bombardier CRJ700 regional jets, for delivery in the second quarter of 2002, taking the total on form order to five. Four pre-owned Beech C99 turboprops sold by Raytheon to Mallette Family of Provo, Utah, have entered service, transporting freight throughout the region. Iberia has converted options on three additional Airbus A340-300s for delivery from February 2002. The deal takes its A340-300 orderbook to 18 aircraft. BAE Systems' Trading and Services Division has purchased three BAe 146-200s operated by Malmo Aviation for onward sale or lease. BAE is also remarketing two other Malmo 146s on behalf of Chrysler Capital. The Swedish airline is replacing the aircraft with newer, larger Avro RJ100s. Air India will introduce two ex-Middle East Airlines Airbus A310-300s in the second quarter 2001 on three year lease from GE Capital Aviation Services.
Source: Flight International
