Emirates Secures $1.5 Billion Investments for A380 Fleet Enhancement at Dubai Airshow 2023
Emirates, the world’s leading international airline and the largest operator of the A380, is doubling down on investments, securing agreements exceeding USD $1.5 billion at the Dubai Airshow to enhance operational efficiency and ensure the peak performance and reliability of its double-decker fleet well into the next decade.
The airline has inked deals with a network of providers and partners to deliver superior aviation aftermarket and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services.
Partners include industry giants such as Honeywell, Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, Safran, Lufthansa Technik, OEM Services, Gameco, Haeco, and others.
The collaboration aims to optimize the lifespan of Emirates’ A380 fleet, ensuring adherence to the airline’s exacting standards and unlocking additional operational efficiency gains.
The comprehensive work, already underway, aligns with Emirates’ commitment to quality, ensuring passengers continue to enjoy the airline’s signature onboard products and services for years to come.
Simultaneously, Emirates is progressing with the largest retrofit program in the industry, a USD $2 billion initiative set to elevate the onboard experience even further.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, emphasized the enduring role of the A380 in Emirates’ success, stating, “The A380 will remain core to our network and customer proposition for the next decade, and we want to ensure our fleet is in tip-top shape.”
Key agreements include Collins Aerospace supporting the A380 Main Landing gear overhaul program, Safran Landing Systems providing exclusive services for the A380 Nose Landing gear, and Honeywell supplying wheels and carbon brakes for 116 A380 aircraft.
Additionally, Emirates extended its 15-year relationship with OEMServices for ongoing component support.
Emirates has strategically partnered with Pratt & Whitney for maintenance and support of its PW980 Auxiliary Power Units and enlisted Lufthansa Technik for Base Maintenance Services and main landing gear overhaul requirements.
Agreements with Gameco and Haeco in China for A380 C Checks further solidify Emirates’ commitment to fleet maintenance and enhancement.
Currently operating close to 90 A380s, with more set to join the fleet, Emirates continues its retrofit program, upgrading 67 A380s to refresh every cabin class, including the introduction of new Premium Economy Class cabins.
Sixteen aircraft have already undergone upgrades, marking a monumental undertaking managed entirely by the Emirates Engineering team.
