Speculation is rife that a deferral of both models by Emirates could occur, noted the Air Cargo Management Group (ACMG) at its recent workshop in Seattle.
Exact quote:
"It is speculated that Emirates may defer its A380 and 777 deliveries in 2009 and 2010."
ACMG's workshop notes, a copy of which was obtained by Runway Girl, point out that Emirates, one of the fastest growing airlines in the world, "has not made a public statement regarding its current passenger and cargo traffic since 4Q 2008".
The carrier recently removed the 489-seat A380 from its Dubai-New York route due to a decline in passenger demand. Its nonstop service from both San Francisco and Los Angeles to Dubai is carrying "reported loads on the 777-300ER and LR aircraft of over 80%", notes ACMG.
The consultancy adds: "Rumours abound of closer cooperation with oil-rich Abu Dhabi's Etihad."
Industry analyst Richard Aboulafia recently suggested that Airbus' heavy reliance on Emirates for A380 orders and the carrier's local rivals should be a concern to the European airframer.
"One-third of the orderbook comes from a region that depends on very high growth rates yet has just seen a negative month and six slow growth months," he said. "Some Middle-East deliveries will certainly get stretched out. The current ramp-up schedule might soften further due to deferrals and production issues."
Emirates is one of the top carriers in the world for in-flight entertainment (IFE) and interiors, so it makes sense for us to keep on eye on this. Here's hoping that the speculation is just that.
Recent Comments