Emirates has not yet decided on an aircraft to expand its fleet of smaller twin-aisle aircraft, says HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, chairman of the Emirates group, and the airline is looking at the A350 and other aircraft. “But if there is an announcement,” he says, “it will be made at Dubai.” The Dubai International Air Show will be held on November 20-24. Sheik Ahmed also sees no risk in Emirates’ massive order for 45 A380s. “If we had the aircraft today, we’d be able to use it. By next week, we’ll have 12 flights per day to the UK, six flights to Germany and six flights to Australia.” The A380 will allow Emirates to increase capacity within frequency limits set by bilateral limits and airport slot availability. “To get a slot at Heathrow can cost millions.” —Bill Sweetman
