China's Zhejiang Airlines is to lease three new Airbus A319s from CIT Aerospace in early 2002 to replace three Bombardier Dash 8-300s. Meanwhile CIT has placed firm orders for 20 Boeing 737-700s and five 757-300s plus five options. The 737s will be delivered over three years beginning in March 2003, while the 757s will be delivered between early 2003 and early 2004. Dutch commuter airline KLM exel will replace its four 30-seat Embraer EMB-120 Brasilias with up to three 46-seat ATR 42s for its 2001 summer season. UK charter airline Air 2000 has completed fleet renewal deals for up to eight Rolls-Royce RB211-535E4-powered Boeing 757-200s. Four aircraft will be delivered in early 2003 on operating lease from CIT. Air 2000 will receive four more 757s through to 2005. The London Gatwick-based airline has conversion options for the larger 757-300 and longer range -200ERX, which it is currently evaluating. Delta Air Lines' low fare arm Delta Express is to acquire eight additional Boeing 737-200s over the next eight months. The airline is eyeing the 737-700 to cater for growth beyond 2002.
Source: Flight International
