Third Sukhoi Superjet 100 test aircraft began cold soak testing last week in Yakutsk. Testing will validate standard flight preparation and systems performance after short (up to 2 hr.) and long (at least 12 hr.) parking. Sukhoi said average February temperature at the airport is -35C.

Cabot Aviation delivered the fourth of seven 737-200s to Karachi-based Shaheen Air International. Aircraft were purchased by Sharjah-based KAL Aviation from Aerotrans Leasing.

Third 787 joined Boeing's flight test program. Aircraft ZA004, the fourth test aircraft built, took off Wednesday at 11:43 a.m. local time from Everett. Boeing said the fourth aircraft was scheduled to fly before ZA003 because the data it is collecting "is needed more quickly both for certification and development of the 787-9." ZA004 flew for 3 hr. 2 min., reached 30,000 ft. and 255 kt. and "operated flawlessly," according to Capt. Heather Ross. ZA004 will be used to test aerodynamics, high-speed performance, propulsion performance, flight loads, community noise and ETOPS.

United Airlines yesterday finalized its order for 25 787-8s worth $4.2 billion at list prices, Boeing announced. The contract includes 50 purchase rights (ATWOnline, Dec. 9, 2009). UA said it expects to take delivery of the 787s, as well as the A350s it also plans to acquire, between 2016 and 2019. It said it expects its Airbus order to be finalized this quarter.

Republic Airways Holdings, fresh off reporting another profitable year with net income of $39.7 million, yesterday placed a firm order for 40 CSeries aircraft valued at $3.06 billion.