China orders 160 Airbus aircraft worth $17 billion

Airbus SAS, the world's largest commercial planemaker, won an order from China for 160 aircraft valued at around $17 billion, cementing a record year.

The deal comprises 110 A320s and 50 A330s, Louis Gallois, chief executive officer of European Aeronautic, Defence & Space Co, Airbus's parent, said after the contracts were signed in Beijing yesterday. The deal includes 10 A330 aircraft ordered by China Southern Airlines Co.

The contracts are a boost for Toulouse, France-based Airbus as it struggles to end losses following a $6.8 billion charge from the A380 superjumbo and delays to its new A350 long-haul plane. Airbus and Boeing Co have benefited from a jump in sales to Asia and the Persian Gulf, sending annual orders at both manufacturers to record levels.