Emirates Adds Eight More A350-900s, Lifting Total To 73
Emirates has topped up its Airbus widebody order, signing for eight additional A350-900s and taking its commitment for the type to 73 aircraft. The deal includes Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84 engines and schedules delivery of the new units in 2031. Emirates says the A350 is helping it add capacity efficiently while rolling out its latest cabins, including Premium Economy.
Why This Matters
The add-on arrives the same week Emirates expanded its Boeing order with 65 more 777X jets. Taken together, the carrier now has 375 widebodies on order across Airbus and Boeing—firepower aimed at sustaining growth through the 2030s and supporting Dubai’s hub ambitions.
Where The A350 Fits In Emirates’ Plan
Emirates has received 13 A350-900s since the type entered its fleet last November and now awaits 60 more following this latest purchase. The A350’s lower trip cost and range make it a natural fit for medium- and long-haul markets that don’t require an A380 or 777-300ER, while still offering Emirates’ refreshed interiors.
The Bigger Fleet Picture
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On order: 73 Airbus A350-900s (including the eight just added), 777X family, additional 787s, and new freighters—375 total widebodies pending delivery.
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In service backbone: Airbus A380 and Boeing 777-300ER remain the mainstays until 777X deliveries ramp up.
What To Watch
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Deployment: Expect more A350s on routes where Emirates wants daily frequency and premium product without A380-level capacity.
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Cabin rollout: Continued expansion of Premium Economy and refreshed IFE as additional A350s arrive.
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777X timing: The A350 provides flexibility while Emirates waits for 777X certification and induction on dense trunk routes.
Bottom Line
The A350 top-up gives Emirates near-term, fuel-efficient growth while its supersized 777X order positions the airline for high-capacity flying later in the decade—two complementary bets under one expansion strategy.
