Hainan Airlines parent HNA Group signed a strategic cooperation agreement with AVIC II under which the parties will cooperate on aircraft purchasing and leasing. At the signing ceremony, HNA Group Chairman Cheng Feng said his company's alliance with AVIC II will further the development of and investment potential in China's rapidly growing air transport industry.

E-190, which seats up to 114 passengers, received ETOPS approval from US FAA allowing the aircraft to operate routes with a diversion airport up to 75 min. from the flight path. Embraer officials said the approval will increase performance capabilities in regions such as Southeast Asia or Australia. It is working on 120-min. ETOPS approval, which it expects to secure early next year.

ABX Air signed a two-year agreement with ANA to operate two 767-200 freighters to support ANA's cargo operations in Japan, China and Thailand. Effective May 15, the deal is expected to generate $22 million in annual revenue for Ohio-based ABX, an all-cargo carrier that primarily operates flights on DHL's US network but has been seeking to expand its base of services. "This agreement underscores ABX's commitment to grow its presence as an international provider of aircraft and aircraft-related services," President and CEO Joe Hete said. It has 35 767s in service, including 29 for DHL.

Copa Airlines yesterday announced an order for four 737-800s valued at $282 million for delivery in 2011 and 2012. The Panamanian carrier already operates 24 737NGs and now has 10 on order. Boeing previously listed the order as being from an unidentified customer. Copa operates four of the world's longest 737 routes from its Panama City hub to Buenos Aires, Santiago, Sao Paulo and Los Angeles.

GE Plastics announced the launch of a new line of products specifically designed to reduce aircraft weight and maintenance costs and improve fuel performance.