Emirates increases fleet size

Emirates has signed an agreement with GE Commercial Aviation Service (GECAS) to lease five more Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. All five aircraft, scheduled for delivery in the second half of 2008, will boast a three-class configuration, mini-suites in First Class, lie-flat seats in Business, spacious Economy seats, crew rest area and the very latest in inflight entertainment.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said: "Our fleet is a key factor in our organic growth strategy and these new leased aircraft will minimise the impact of any shortfalls in our fleet projections. It’s no secret that Emirates has mapped an ambitious growth plan for the next ten years, which can be gauged by our intention to launch services to Venice, Houston, Sao Paolo and Newcastle this year."

He added: "We have an excellent ongoing relationship with GECAS and are assured of their customer orientation and their alignment with our business objectives."

Today, Emirates has 23 Boeing 777-300ERs in its fleet and a firm order for 36 more, including the new lease order. By 2013, Emirates’ fleet will feature 59 of the -300ERs, 19 of these leased from GECAS. The 777-300ER brings twin-engine efficiency and reliability to the long-range market. At full passenger and cargo capacity, the aircraft can fly up to 5,300 nautical miles (9,815 kilometres), or easily non-stop from Dubai to New York.

Henry Hubschman, President and CEO of GECAS said: "We are delighted to partner once again with Emirates, one of the world’s leading airlines. We already share a close business relationship with Emirates, and this lease agreement further enhances our partnership. We look forward once again to fulfilling their expectations."

Currently, Emirates has 101 aircraft in its fleet – a mix of Boeing 777-300ERs, -300s, -200s, 747Fs; and Airbus A340-500s, A340-300s, A330-200s, A310Fs, and one A310. The airline’s fleet is among the youngest in the skies, with an average age of just 61 months. The airline has more than 100 aircraft on order, pending delivery. Emirates currently serves 87 destinations in 58 countries worldwide.