European jet maker Airbus SAS took in orders and commitments for 142 aircraft worth $15 billion at list prices on the first day of the Paris Air Show, AP quoted the company as saying on Monday. Of note were firm orders for 90 of its A320neo, a version of the workhorse jet that's been revamped to make it more fuel efficient. GE Capital Aviation Services and Sweden's SAS AB in combination made firm orders worth over $8 billion for the A320neo, a jet that Airbus is expected to begin delivering in 2015. Los Angeles-based Air Lease Corporation also made a commitment for 50 of the aircraft including 14 options. The European planemaker announced the deals at the Paris Air Show, where the search for a cheaper and cleaner way to fly is emerging as a major theme. With airlines squeezed by skyrocketing fuel prices, Airbus has booked 470 orders and commitments for the A320neo since its commercial launch last December, even though the plane won't be available for another four years. GE Capital Aviation Services ordered 60 A320neo jets worth about $5.5 billion at list prices, though buyers often strike discounts. -- SPA
