British Airways has chosen Rolls-Royce Trent engines to power its four new Boeing 777-200ER aircraft that will be delivered in 2009.

The airline has also signed a long term maintenance agreement with Rolls-Royce for the engines.

This follows a competition between Rolls-Royce Trent and General Electric GE90 engines.

The airline currently has 43 Boeing 777 aircraft in its fleet, of which 16 are Boeing 777-200 ER aircraft powered by Rolls-Royce Trent engines. The remaining 777 aircraft have GE90 engines.

British Airways commercial director, Robert Boyle, said: "This was a closely fought competition but in terms of cost and ongoing maintenance support, Rolls-Royce came out in front."

"Later this year, we will place a major order for new longhaul aircraft and both Roll-Royce and GE, along with the Engine Alliance, will be competing to provide the engines for those aircraft."