Emirates expected to order Boeing 777 Worldliner

A major order for a number of Boeing 777-200LR Worldliners the longest-range airliner in the world is expected to be announced by Emirates at the Dubai 2005 Airshow, sources close to the deal said.

The orderbook, pending a final decision, could involve more than 20 Worldliners that would enable the Dubai-based carrier to launch non-stop flights from Dubai to more North American destinations beyond New York.

At the list price of $211 million, the order could be worth $4.22 billion (Dh15.48 billion).

Emirates currently operates Airbus A340-500s on the service its longest route so far. The aircraft's range does not permit longer-haul non-stop flights to cities such as Toronto, Los Angeles and Dallas from Dubai.

Officials of both Emirates and Boeing remained tight-lipped on this as both companies are putting final touches to the possible announcement, expected on Sunday.

When contacted, Emirates senior vice-president (corporate communications) Mike Simon declined to comment.

"Emirates has a press conference at the Airshow on Sunday. Till then I cannot make any comments on this," he told Gulf News yesterday.

The Dubai 2005 Airshow, the ninth international aerospace exhibition, will open on Sunday at the Airport Expo with 726 exhibitors from 46 countries, 15 national pavilions, a newly-constructed third hall and a new training and simulation pavilion.

Over 100 aircraft will be on display, including close to 40 business jets.

"This show has grown by 25 per cent in terms of exhibitor space in 2003, more than 25 per cent in terms of exhibiting companies, and justifies our claim that it is the fastest-growing air show in the fastest-growing aviation region," said Shaikh Ahmad Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chairman of Emirates Group.

"The Middle East last year led the way on air passenger traffic growth, recording a 24.8 per cent rise, while freight traffic for the region was again at an all-time high, registering 26.8 per cent growth," he said.