In a deal worth $16 billion, Emirates Airline and Airbus announce order for 50 Airbus A350-900

During the 2019 Dubai Airshow, Emirates Airline and Airbus have announced an order for 50 Airbus A350-900’s. The first delivery of the $16 billion deal is expected in May 2023, with deliveries continuing until 2028.

Change of plans! In February, Airbus and Emirates agreed to buy 30 Airbus A350-900 (now 50) and 40 Airbus A330-900 but the agreement on the A330-model seems off.

The Airbus A350 will also offer premium economy, a new strategic move from the Gulf airline that will debut on its newest Airbus A380 aircraft being delivered in 2020. In its 35-year history, the airline has only ever offered first class, business class and economy.

Discussions with Boeing over the 787 Dreamliner model are still ongoing.

Airbus press release: Emirates Airline orders 50 A350XWB at Dubai Airshow 2019

Airbus and Emirates Airline have signed a purchase agreement for 50 A350-900s – Airbus’ newest generation widebody aircraft.

The order was signed at Dubai Airshow 2019 by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and Guillaume Faury, Airbus Chief Executive Officer.

HH Sheikh Ahmed said: “Today, we are pleased to sign a firm order for 50 A350 XWBs, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. This follows a thorough review of various aircraft options and of our own fleet plans. It is Emirates’ long-standing strategy to invest in modern and efficient aircraft, and we are confident in the performance of the A350 XWB.

“Complementing our A380s and 777s, 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 hub.”

Sheikh Ahmed added: “This deal reflects our confidence in the future of the UAE’s aviation sector, and is a strong affirmation of Dubai’s strategy to be a global nexus connected to cities, communities and economies via a world-class and modern aviation sector.”

“We are honoured by Emirates’ strong vote of confidence in our newest widebody aircraft, taking our partnership to the next level. The A350 will bring unbeatable economics and environmental benefits to their fleet,” said Guillaume Faury, Airbus Chief Executive Officer.  “We look forward to seeing the A350 flying in Emirates colours!”