Let out a huge sigh of relief Superjumbo-jet lovers! (but still keep those model planes in pristine condition) because your precious Airbus A380 has been saved, at least for the next decade.
Emirates has signed a new deal for 36 A380 aircraft to join the line’s existing 101 Superjumbo fleet plus 41 on back order.
The announcement acts as a ‘Hail Mary’ to Airbus, which earlier this month questioned the future of the aircraft, saying it would have to discontinue the plane model unless its biggest buyer, Emirates, ordered more.
According to Airbus’ Chief Operating Officer Customers, John Leahy, the manufacturer needed the Dubai-based carrier to place an order for at least 60 aircraft over the next decade, in order to turn around a profit and continue production.
Emirates’ new order plus its existing order backlog for 41 planes, put it well ahead of the factory’s requirements.
Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, said the A380 has been successful for the airline by both satisfying customers and network expansion requirements.
“This order will provide stability to the A380 production line.”
Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates Chairman & CEO
“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 give us plenty of room to do something different with the interiors.”
Currently, 20 aircraft in the new deal are placed as firm orders, while 16 are currently still options. Some of the planes will be used as fleet replacements.
Airbus’ Leahy welcomed Emirates’ order, saying he’s convinced more airlines will follow Emirates’ example and that “this great aircraft will be built well into the 2030s”.
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