Emirates airline orders another 50 Airbus aircraft in $20 billion deal

TOULOUSE, FRANCE (BNO NEWS) -- Emirates airline, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has signed a firm contract for 50 additional Airbus A380 aircraft in a deal valued at nearly $20.2 billion at list prices, the companies announced on Monday, bringing the airline's total order for A380s to 140.

The French aircraft manufacturer said it completed negotiations with the fast-growing airline, resulting in the recent signing of a firm contract for 50 additional A380s. The order is valued at approximately $20.2 billion at list prices, but aircraft manufacturers usually provide significant discounts.

"The A380 is our flagship aircraft. It is popular with our customers and delivers results for us in terms of operational performance. That is why we have ordered these additional 50 aircraft to add to our A380 fleet," said Emirates Airline President Tim Clark for Monday's announcement. It raises the total number of A380s ordered by Emirates to 140, more than any other airline.

"This order is a major vote of confidence in the A380. Since delivery of their first aircraft in July 2008, Emirates' A380 fleet has grown to be the largest in the world with 44 A380s in operation," commented John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer of Customers at Airbus. "We congratulate Emirates on this impressive achievement and thank the airline for their continued support of our flagship aircraft."

Emirates, which was founded in 1985 and ranks among the top 10 carries worldwide, employs nearly 39,000 people.

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