Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific said Wednesday it would place an US$8.1-billion order for 14 Boeing jets, its first with the US aircraft maker for more than a decade.In a filing to the Hong Kong stock exchange,

Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd. said it would place a $8.1 billion order for 14 more Boeing Co. 777-9 jets, in its first deal with the US planemaker in 12 years.

Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways on Wednesday ordered 14 more Boeing 777-9 jets and reported a 1% increase in first-half profit on the back of growing passenger numbers, lower fuel prices and a steady cargo performance.