Emirates has reaffirmed its commitment to Boeing aircraft with the signing today (Saturday 12th May 2001) of a leasing contract for two Boeing 777-300s, the world’s longest aircraft, with options for two more. The delivery of the aircraft is expected in July and September 2002.

The ten-year leasing contract was signed by Emirates’ Chairman, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, and Robert J. Martin, Managing Director of Singapore Aircraft Leasing Enterprise (SALE).

Sheikh Ahmed said: “We have a long and fruitful relationship with Boeing which is evident in the growing number of aircraft we are acquiring as part of our fleet expansion. “This leasing contract will allow us to maintain operating flexibility when planning future routing and fleet strength.”

Emirates and SALE have agreed an option for two more 777-300s, which are expected to be delivered in 2003.

The airline has already signed leasing contracts with SALE for two 777-300s, the first of which carried the airline’s new corporate livery that was inaugurated in November 1999 at the Dubai Air Show.
Mr Martin said: “We are very pleased to enter into this leasing contract with Emirates for Boeing 777-300 aircraft. “The placement of the two aircraft, for delivery in July and September 2002, means that we have placed all six firm 777-300 orders that SALE originally placed with Boeing.”

Emirates’ current fleet stands at 35, which includes four 777-330s and nine 777-200s. The airline is also the launch customer for the Airbus A380-100 super jumbo, ordering five passenger and two freighter versions, for delivery from 2006.

SALE’s current fleet stands at 33, which includes two 777-300s and four 777-200ERs with a further two 777-300s on order (which will now be leased to Emirates) and ten on option.
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