Airbus warn that if Emirates do not buy more A380 aircrafts “there is no choice but to shut down the programme”

Airbus has confirmed it is preparing to cease production of the world’s largest passenger plane after receiving no new orders in two years.

 

Airbus warned that it needs a new buyer of its flagship A380 if it is to continue production.

 

Speaking at its annual “Orders and Deliveries” event yesterday, Airbus said that it must land a long-term A380 deal with Emirates to keep the programme running.

 

The European aerospace group had been banking on another big order from the Dubai-based airline in November at the Dubai Air Show.

 

However, Airbus representives found themselves attending a news conference at which Emirates announced the purchase of 40 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners in a $15.1 billion deal.

 

John Leahy, Airbus’s sales director, admitted that only Emirates could save the double-decker plane.

 

“We are still talking to Emirates, but honestly, they are probably the only one to have the ability right now,” he said.

 

“If we can’t work out a deal with Emirates there is no choice but to shut down the programme.”

 

Although the jet has been widely praised by passengers for offering a comfortable flying experience, airlines are staying away from the world’s largest passenger plane, instead opting to buy medium-sized aircraft.

 

Last year Singapore Airlines, the A380’s first customer, started putting its superjumbos into storage, while in November an Irish aircraft leasing company said it was considering creating its own airline because it couldn’t find anyone to borrow its A380s.

 

Airbus is also facing multiple corruption investigations, notably in the UK, France, and Austria.