US private-equity firm 777 Partners in talks with Boeing, ATR over new jet order

US private equity firm 777 Partners has said it is in talks with Boeing and Franco-Italian turboprop maker ATR over a new jet order, as it looks to enter more markets amid a boom in air travel. "We've been in discussions with the (aircraft) manufacturers. I think right now the big issue with ordering jets is when you're going to receive them," 777 Managing Partner Josh Wander told Reuters in an interview on Thursday, without disclosing specific numbers. The talks come amid a rush for planes by airlines eager to tap into a greater-than-expected recovery in air travel. Miami-based 777, which invests its founders' money rather than seeking funds from other investors and has about $10b in assets under management, had finalized orders for 60 aircraft in its portfolio. "777 is in discussions with ATR on an additional opportunity that includes aircraft, technology and airline services and if firmed up would put the committed aircraft purchase agreements into the triple digits," the firm said in a statement. Boeing said it had no comment and ATR was not immediately available for comment. Earlier this year, Air India placed an order for 470 jets with Boeing and Airbus - which was later eclipsed by rival IndiGo's order for 500 Airbus planes. Wander said the company is also looking at investments in Asia and South America and is close to striking a deal to invest in a South African carrier, whose name he did not reveal.<br/>