Dubai: The head of Boeing's commercial airplane division said it was nearing the "sweet spot" for the 787-10 model that Emirates is considering, which balances range and payload specs.
After Airbus walked away with the biggest order of the Dubai Airshow with 130 A350 XWBs for Emirates, Boeing said it was still in the running for two additional orders from the Dubai airline.
The airframe manufacturer continues to negotiate with Emirates CEO Tim Clark over the largest version of the Dreamliner, the 787-10, and the new passenger version of Boeing's iconic 747 airplane.
"We had a great airshow and will leave with announcements of over 140 orders, at least," said Scott Carson, president and CEO of Boeing's commercial airplane division.
"We are still in the hunt with them on a couple of model types that we think very well support their needs. I absolutely do not walk out of here with head hung low at all."
Carson said eight parties have expressed interest in the 787-10. Each has identified their requirements.
"There have been a variety of options talked about but they are all converging in that same general sweet spot," Carson said.
The interest ranges from more capacity and shorter range, to less capacity and longer range. "Somewhere in there is the right answer for Emirates.
"Clearly we will hear Emirates' voice because they are important. But you don't want to build an airplane exclusively for Emirates and find the whole rest of the market is somewhere else, and they absolutely understand that," he said.
Boeing's Dreamliner has become the most successful airplane ever, with over 700 orders logged before the first plane rolls off the assembly line. The A350 XWB is a close rival with slightly more cabin area and payload capability.
The Dreamliner recently suffered a six-month production delay after some parts suppliers were unable to fulfil deadlines. While he said the delay didn't affect airlines' purchase decisions, he has received feedback from existing customers.
"They've told us, 'we're disappointed, we understand, but don't do it again,'" Carson said. On Tuesday he expressed confidence he would fulfil their request. "We don't see anything that would cause a delay over six months."
