DUBAI- UAE’s flag carrier Emirates Airline (EK) is grappling with fleet shortages due to delays in Boeing’s delivery of the 777X jets, according to the airline’s president, Tim Clark.
Speaking at an event marking the delivery of Emirates’ first Airbus A350, Clark described the airline as a “frustrated entity,” stating that it would already operate an 85-strong fleet of the 777-9X if Boeing had met its commitments.
Photo: Clément AlloingEmirates 777X Delays
The delays, worsened by a weeks-long strike at Boeing’s factories, have hampered Emirates’ expansion plans. Clark emphasized the airline’s growth ambitions, saying, “We’ve had our wings clipped.”
Despite the setbacks, Emirates has no immediate plans to reconsider its 777-9X order, opting instead to monitor Boeing’s progress.
Clark referenced Boeing’s recent $21 billion capital injection and the conclusion of the factory strike, expressing hope that the manufacturer would resolve its production and development issues in the coming months.
Boeing’s CEO announced in October that the first 777-9 deliveries are now expected in 2026 due to development challenges, the flight-test pause, and the strike-related work stoppage.
Meanwhile, Clark highlighted the strategic importance of the Airbus A350 in driving Emirates’ next growth phase. The new aircraft will enable the airline to explore new destinations and expand its global footprint.
Photo: Clément AlloingEmirates A350 Delivery
Emirates has received its first Airbus A350, registered as A6-EXA, signaling a key step in its fleet modernization program. This marks the airline’s first new aircraft type addition since 2008, with 64 more A350s slated for future delivery.
The handover ceremony took place in Toulouse, and the aircraft departed for Dubai at 4:00 PM local time. Aviation enthusiasts can track the delivery flight of A6-EXA on FlightRadar24.
Upon arrival in Dubai, Emirates Engineering will finalize preparations ahead of the official unveiling later this week. The delivery flight used a blend of conventional jet fuel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
The A350 will enter commercial service in January, starting with flights to Edinburgh. The aircraft’s network will expand to include eight more destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and West Asia.
Configured in a three-class cabin, Emirates’ Airbus A350-900 accommodates 312 passengers. It offers 32 flatbed business-class seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, 21 premium economy seats, and 259 economy seats.
Emirates has ordered 65 A350-900 aircraft and plans to receive 10 of them by March 2025, underscoring its commitment to fleet enhancement and operational growth.
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The post Emirates Frustruated with Boeing over 777X Delays appeared first on Aviation A2Z.
