Emirates has announced a $16 billion agreement to acquire 36 Airbus A380 aircraft, comprising 20 firm orders and 16 options. Deliveries are scheduled to join the airline’s fleet from 2020. Combined with its existing fleet of 101 A380s and a backlog of 41 aircraft, Emirates’ future A380 fleet would total 178 aircraft, representing a fleet value in excess of $60 billion.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, said the purchase underlines Emirates’ role in Dubai’s ongoing growth and global connectivity. He described the deal as a demonstration of the airline’s confidence and its contribution to Dubai’s ambition to strengthen its position as a world-class destination and major aviation hub.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, emphasized the A380’s success with customers and the operational flexibility it provides. He noted that some of the newly ordered aircraft will serve as replacements within the fleet and that the order supports continued production of the A380. Sheikh Ahmed also highlighted Emirates’ intention to work closely with Airbus to further refine the aircraft and onboard products, enhancing the passenger experience. He pointed out that the A380’s size and configuration offer significant scope to innovate interior layouts and onboard services.