Airbus has breathed a sigh of relief as Emirates has placed a new order for 36 A380 aircraft only a week after it was announced the type may be retired if no new orders were forthcoming.
The airline has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to acquire up to 36 additional A380 aircraft – an order which comprises 20 firm orders and 16 options, with deliveries to start in 2020. The order is worth US$16 billion at list prices.
Emirates has been an A380 operator since 2008 and recently took delivery of its 100th example. It is the largest operator of the type and has helped make it a success during uncertain times.
Sheikh Ahmed said: “We’ve made no secret of the fact that the A380 has been a success for Emirates. Our customers love it, and we’ve been able to deploy it on different missions across our network, giving us flexibility in terms of range and passenger mix. He added: “Some of the new A380s we’ve just ordered will be used as fleet replacements. This order will provide stability to the A380 production line. We will continue to work closely with Airbus to further enhance the aircraft and onboard product, so as to offer our passengers the best possible experience. The beauty of this aircraft is that the technology and real estate on board gives us plenty of room to do something different with the interiors.”
“I would like to thank Emirates, HH Sheikh Ahmed, Tim Clark and Adel Al-Redha for their continued support of the A380,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer Customers, Airbus Commercial Aircraft. “This aircraft has contributed enormously to Emirates’ growth and success since 2008 and we are delighted that it will continue to do so. This new order underscores Airbus’ commitment to produce the A380 at least for another ten years. I’m personally convinced more orders will follow Emirates’ example and that this great aircraft will be built well into the 2030s.”
