Emirates evaluates converting Airbus A380 orders to A350

Photo: © Mark Harkin

Emirates, the world’s largest Airbus A380 operator, is evaluating plans to convert some of its existing Airbus A380 orders to the A350 aircraft, according to a report from news agency Reuters.

In 2018, the Gulf carrier agreed to buy 20 more Airbus A380s, combined with an option for additional 16 superjumbos, bringing Emirates’ total A380 firm orders to 162. More than 50 orders are still outstanding.

The European plane manufacturer confirmed that it is in discussions with Emirates in relation to the airline’s A380 contract. However, details of Airbus’ commercial discussions with customers remain confidential, the company said.

In June 2014, Emirates cancelled an order for 50 A350-900 and 20 A350-1000, which was originally placed in 2007.

Besides the Airbus A380, Emirates is also the largest operator of the Boeing 777-300ER, with 139 aircraft of the type. In addition, the airline has 35 Boeing 777-8 and 115 Boeing 777-9 on order.

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