Airbus wins its game of chicken – Emirates places $16 billion order for 36 new A380 superjumbos

Airbus wins its game of chicken – Emirates places $16 billion order for 36 new A380 superjumbos | Secret Flying

The A380 superjumbo has been thrown a lifeline after Emirates announced an order for up to 36 planes.

 

Emirates announced a deal for up to 36 Airbus A380 aircraft on Thursday worth as much as $16 billion, saving the world’s biggest passenger jet from closure.

 

Airbus previously raised concerns that it would cancel the A380 program if it did not manage to secure a long-term deal with Emirates.

 

“We are still talking to Emirates, but honestly, they are probably the only one to have the ability right now,” Airbus’ sales director said earlier this week.

 

It appears Airbus’ strategy has worked.

 

Emirates has committed to buy 20 planes, with an option for 16 more.

 

Reports indicate that the Gulf airline will have negotiated a substantial discount.

 

Emirates’ Dubai hub is strategically built around the 550-seat jet with the airline having more than 100 in service – almost 40 percent of its fleet.

 

The new order should keep the European manufacturer’s flagship program running for at least another decade.