Boeing is expected to disclose a major Varig order today for about 24 new transports worth $1.8 billion at list prices. The sale is a victory for Boeing in the key Latin American market, where arch-competitor Airbus has been making inroads. Varig revealed the deal, for a mix of Boeing narrow and widebody aircraft, several weeks ago while negotiations were being concluded. Although the exact model breakdown is unconfirmed, about half the order is believed to consist of Boeing's new "next-generation" 737s. Boeing also is expected to announce new orders for the Boeing Business Jet this week.

By Paul Proctor