BEIJING, Aug 8: Four Chinese airlines signed contracts worth $5.04 billion on Monday to buy 42 of Boeing’s new-generation 787 planes, the first firm orders for the jet from China with more on the way, officials said. The deal involved two of the nation’s largest carriers, Air China (15 planes) and China Eastern Airlines (15), and the smaller regional Shanghai Airlines (nine) and Xiamen Airlines (three).

George Liu, vice-president of communications at Boeing China, told AFP negotiations were continuing with Hainan Airlines and China Southern Airlines which are also considering buying the jet. Forty-two planes are involved. The other deals with the other airlines are still in the works, he said.

In a statement, the Chicago-based aeroplane manufacturer said it was working to reach an agreement on 18 additional 787s, which are part of a previously announced commitment by China. We remain confident a deal will be completed in the near future, it said.—AFP