ENGINES giant Rolls-Royce has received a £3.2 billion boost after it was chosen by Delta Air Lines to power 50 new Airbus aircraft.

The deal is a timely one for the company, which has two plants at Barnoldswick, near Skipton, after it recently announced plans for 2,600 job cuts as part of an efficiency drive.

It has ruled out growth this year due to the impact of defence spending cuts and warned that profits next year may be up to three per cent lower amid tough conditions.