EMIRATES BOOSTS A330 FLEET

Emirates, the international airline of the United Arab Emirates, has placed a firm order for two more A330-200s, for delivery in July and August 2002. The deal reinforces Emirates’ position as the largest A330 airline customer in the world, as well as its role as the biggest Airbus client in the Middle East.

The new A330s will join Emirates’ existing fleet on services to Europe, Africa, Asia and within the Middle East. Like the rest of the Emirates A330-200 fleet, the new aircraft will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 772s.

The two new A330-200s will seat 237 passengers, in first, business and economy class.

"Airbus’ A330 has been a great tool in growing Emirates, delivering excellent economy and powerful passenger appeal on a wide range of routes,“ says Emirates Chairman, His Highness, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum. “In adding to our A330 fleet, we are reinforcing the foundations for Emirates’ continued growth and prosperity,” he adds.

Emirates has now placed firm orders for a total of 23 A330-200s, of which 18 are already in service. It also has orders for six A340-500s, deliveries of which begin next year, and will take seven A380s, including two freighters, deliveries of which begin in 2006.

“Emirates is one of the world’s great airlines, managing strong and successful growth while establishing an enviable reputation with passengers around the world,” says Airbus Chief Executive Officer Noël Forgeard. “Our partnership with Emirates is long, fruitful and still growing”.

The Airbus A330/A340 family are the world’s most successful 250-375 seat airliners, with over 700 aircraft and almost 60 customers to their credit. They are also consistently preferred in independent passenger surveys.

Airbus offers airlines the most modern and comprehensive airliner family, ranging from 100 to 555 seats, supported by a worldwide network of technical advice, spare parts and training.

Airbus has won some 4,400 orders to date, has some 200 customers and operators, and is the joint number one airliner manufacturer in the market above 100 seats. It is a joint EADS company with BAE SYSTEMS.