Aircraft

The performance gains predicted for the A380 from 2012 through weight savings has pitched the aircraft directly "into the Boeing 747-8I's window", says Emirates Airline president Tim Clark.

"Beyond 2012 it's going to be a very close run thing between the two," he says.

Emirates has been in talks with Boeing about a 747-8I deal, with the key criteria being the capability to fly Dubai-Los Angeles year-round with an economic payload. Boeing has not yet been able to guarantee this, but says it is striving to achieve the goal.

© Boeing

However Clark says that improved capability of the A380 could make some airlines that are evaluating the 747-8I for its range rethink. "In our configuration the 747-8I would have 360-370 seats, but the A380 will be able to carry up to 100 more passengers" with similar range.