The highlight of the show was the firm order from Emirates Airline for 32 A380s. This latest order from the Dubai based carrier brings its total orders for the A380 to 90 aircraft. Emirates has supported the development of the A380 from the earliest days, and this order - the single largest A380 order ever - is an unequivocal endorsement of both the A380’s exceptional in-service performance, and also its role as a market-growth enabler for airlines that operate it.

In addition to this firm order, commitments reached at the show included MoUs for 35 aircraft worth approximately $3.8 billion, from:
• TAM Airlines for five A350-900s worth almost $1.3 billion, plus 20 A320 Family aircraft worth around $1.7 billion (comprising six A319s, seven A320s and seven A321s);
• Finnair for five A321s worth $485 million. These aircraft will come equipped with the new performance-enhancing “Sharklet” wingtip device option;
• Germania for five A319s worth $372 million.

John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers commented: “The recessionary tide has turned, and our success at this show proves yet again the world airlines’ clear preference for the superior aircraft of Airbus.” He added: “What we have seen at ILA are green shoots of industry recovery. There is more to come as the industry picks up.”

Airbus’ success is founded on innovative design, which has given it the world’s most modern aircraft family in every category from 100 to well over 500 passenger seats.

Source: Airbus