Emirates to purchase up to 36 new Airbus A380s

Dubai-based airline Emirates signed a memorandum of understanding to purchase as many as 36 new Airbus SE A380s for a total of $16bn.

The deal between Airbus and Emirates, the fourth-largest airline in the world, consisted of 20 firm orders, with an option for an additional 16 aircraft, and would take the Gulf carrier's commitment to the A380 programme up to 178 planes, with a total asset worth of more than $60bn.

Shaikh Ahmad Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates, who signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus' chief operating officer John Lahey on Thursday, said "We've made no secret of the fact that the A380 has been a success for Emirates. Our customers love it, and we’ve been able to deploy it on different missions across our network, giving us flexibility in terms of range and passenger mix."

"Some of the new A380s we've just ordered will be used as fleet replacements. This order will provide stability to the A380 production line. We will continue to work closely with Airbus to further enhance the aircraft and onboard product, so as to offer our passengers the best possible experience. The beauty of this aircraft is that the technology and real estate on board gives us plenty of room to do something different with the interiors," he added.

Woodseer estimated a final dividend of €1.4 for Airbus with an ex-div date of 1 May.

As of 1040 GMT, Airbus shares had gotten a lift of 1.69% to €91.26 each.