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CHICAGO (AFP): United Airlines announced a monster order of 150 aircraft from Boeing, a deal which the planemaker said was worth about USD 14.7 billion.

United's order of all 737 aircraft -- the world's best-selling passenger plane -- will see planes delivered until 2022.

"United and Boeing share a rich history together and we are delighted United has chosen the 737 for its future fleet, renewing our partnership for decades to come," said Ray Conner, chief executive of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

United's president and CEO Jeff Smisek said customers could now expect more "modern features" while the firm would benefit from greater fuel efficiency.

The order on Thursday includes 100 Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft and 50 Boeing 737-900ER aircraft.

The 737 MAX 9 single-aisle aircraft will be delivered from 2018 and feature a quieter cabin and brighter lighting, which is meant to give the impression of more space. They also feature larger overhead bins.

The 50 737-900ER models will replace 757-200 aircraft that currently fly domestic routes.

Earlier Boeing's European rival Airbus announced today orders worth around USD 6.35 billion.