The following correction was added on 19 May 2006
Addis Ababa, at an altitude of 2,320m (7,652ft) is the fifth highest commercial airport in the world, rather than second as we said in the article below. At 4,100m El Alto airport in La Paz, Bolivia is undisputed as highest, but in neighbouring Equador, Quito airport stands at 2,820m. Meanwhile in Colombia, capital city Bogotà is at 2,700m; and southwestern town Ipiales at 2,960m.
A series of deals to place the strong-selling Boeing 787 at a diverse range of airlines is close to fruition.
In Mexico, flag-carrier Aéromexico is studying a proposal from lessor International Lease Finance (ILFC) for three aircraft to be delivered in 2010. The deal was revealed by Mexican pilots' union ASPA, although neither the lessor nor airframer has commented.
ILFC has confirmed however that it has concluded a deal to place two Boeing 787-8s with Air Seychelles, also for delivery in 2010. The machines will replace ILFC-provided Boeing 767-300ERs with the carrier.
In Israel, Arkia Airlines is in talks direct with Boeing for the purchase of four 787s for expansion of its services to the USA. Arkia says a deal is likely later this month. The carrier plans to lease other widebodies while waiting for the 787s.
And Flight premium news service Air Transport Intelligence reports from Addis Ababa that Ethiopian Airlines may add a further five aircraft to its existing order for ten.
The carrier also needs to decide the split between the -8 and -9 variants in its order. The high altitdue of Addis Ababa which, at 2,320m (7,652ft), is the second highest airport in the world, will play a key role in that.
Source: Flight International
