Emirates to get superjumbo on July 28

Emirates Airline, the largest customer for the A380 superjumbo, Friday announced it will receive the first of its 58 A380 aircraft on order from Airbus' Hamburg facility on July 28.

A statement issued here said that the 58 A380s on Emirates' order book are worth US$ 18.8 billion at current list prices.

It pointed out that Emirates' A380 interiors and onboard product, which has been kept under wraps thus far, will also be revealed for the first time during the delivery ceremony in Hamburg.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive,Emirates Airline & Group said: "The A380, with its large capacity and excellent operating economics, will be one of the pillars of Emirates'future growth. We have been working very closely with Airbus since the A380 programme's inception back in 2000, and all through the ups and downs from the drawing board to production, we have remained unshakable in our belief that this is the aircraft for the next chapter of aviation.

A significant environmental development, the A380 is also quieter, both inside and outside of the cabin, which means more comfort for passengers and a smaller noise footprint.

"Despite the high oil prices, for us, demand remains strong and the A380's combination of range, capacity and fuel efficiency will help Emirates to continue achieving our growth targets. We very much look forward to receiving our first A380 aircraft next month."

In its current financial year (ending March 2009), Emirates will receive delivery of five A380s, all featuring its ultra long-haul configuration of 489 seats: 14 in First Class, 76 in Business and 399 in Economy; with 10 tonnes of bellyhold capacity for cargo.