DUBAI: European aerospace giant Airbus announced an order for 10 A350-900 planes by Egypt’s state-owned carrier EgyptAir today, on the second day of the Dubai Airshow.
Airbus commercial director Christian Scherer told a news conference that the deal marked “an important milestone” in the “long and successful partnership” with EgyptAir.
Without discounts, which are routinely applied in the industry, the transaction is worth US$3.2 billion, according to the manufacturer’s latest published list price.
Airbus, which yesterday announced an order for 30 A220-300s from Latvian budget carrier airBaltic, has been overshadowed by US rival Boeing at this year’s Dubai Airshow.
Boeing announced a mega-contract with Emirates, the Middle East’s biggest airline, yesterday for 55 Boeing 777-9s, 35 777-8s, and five 787 Dreamliners in a deal worth US$52 billion.
The 777-9s are expected for delivery in 2025 and the 777-8s are scheduled for 2030.
Low-cost carrier flydubai, also based in the Gulf emirate, announced an order for 30 Boeing 787-9s, valued at US$63 billion.
Emirates chief executive officer Tim Clark said today that he will not buy Airbus’ A350 until he has concluded negotiations with engine manufacturer Rolls Royce, which he blames for a lack of durability and longevity.
Clark said “40% of the 350-1000s have been sold into this region,” adding, “This is the region that is buying these airplanes and will buy the big numbers if the engine issue’s resolved.”
Airbus has emphasised that the technology used by the Airbus in the A350s enables the aircraft to consume 25% less fuel than its competitor’s previous models.
The Emirates CEO said reliability was paramount in the selection of aircraft. “They might not be as advanced in their technology in their build materials. But in the end, what we want is reliant,” Clark said.
