NetJets to spend up to $9.6B on 425 new planes

NetJets to spend up to $9.6B on 425 new planes

Published June 12, 2012 12:36am ET



COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — NetJets, which sells partial ownership interests in business jets, plans to spend up to $9.6 billion to buy up to 425 planes from Wichita aircraft makers Cessna and Bombardier.

CEO Jordan Hansell said the deals are part of NetJets’ 10-year plan. Hansell said they reflect that the company, which is owned by Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, is “optimistic about the economy over the long term.”

The deals follow a $6.7 billion purchase in 2011 and a $1.3 billion deal in 2010.

The Columbus, Ohio, company has placed firm orders for 125 planes so far.

Hansell said the new aircraft will be faster and more fuel-efficient and have a longer range than similar planes. And they’ll offer advanced in-flight entertainment options and the ability to work online during an entire flight.