Emirates (EK, Dubai International) has firmed an order for fifty A350-900s during the ongoing 2019 Dubai Air Show, increasing its commitment for thirty such aircraft announced in February 2019.
"Complementing our A380-800s and B777s, the A350s will give us added operational flexibility in terms of capacity, range and deployment. In effect, we are strengthening our business model to provide efficient and comfortable air transport services to, and through, our Dubai International hub," Chairman and Chief Executive Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said.
Deliveries of the A350s for the Emirati flag carrier are expected to start in May 2023 and continue through 2028. Emirates plans to use the A350s across its network ranging from regional routes to ultra-long-haul sectors.
At the same time, Emirates did not confirm an order for forty A330-900s, included in the same Letter of Intent in February this year, stating that discussions regarding the A330s are still ongoing.
The carrier's current fleet includes 113 A380-800s, ten B777-200(LR)s, 134 B777-300(ER)s, eleven B777-F, and a single A319-100ACJ. Emirates has orders for a further fifty A380s, of which only ten will be delivered, six B777-300(ER)s, thirty-five B777-8s, and 115 B777-9s.
