Thai Airways International PCL (THAI.TH) Thursday said it has signed a contract with Airbus covering the firm order of four A350-900s and five A320 aircraft, becoming a new customer for both aircraft types.

MAIN FACTS:

- In addition to the aircraft ordered from Airbus, the airline is also leasing eight additional A350-900s and six more A320s from third party lessors.

- In addition to the aircraft types ordered today, the airline is also set to become a new operator of the A380 in the second half of 2012.

- Airbus is a subsidiary of European Aeronautic Defence & Space Co. NV (EAD.FR)

- By Paris Bureau, Dow Jones Newswires; +331-4017-1740; ruth.bender@dowjones.com