Emirates Becomes World's Largest 777 Airline Operator

Boeing delivered Emirates' 78th 777 this week, the airline's 45th 777-300ER (Extended Range). The Dubai-based carrier is now the world's largest operator of the 777 and the only airline to operate every model type.

Emirates also has an additional 28 Boeing 777s on order, valued at more than $7 billion at current list prices. The airlines' latest 777-300ER, shown here at Paine Field in Everett, Wash. prior to departure for its home base in Dubai, is configured for long-haul operations.

"The 777 is an excellent aircraft in terms of operating economics, and importantly, the new technologies incorporated within enable us to fit it out with the latest onboard systems and passenger amenities," said Tim Clark, president Emirates Airlines. "Emirates is committed to maintaining a young and modern fleet, which enhances our passengers' comfort and safety and also makes our aircraft some of the most environmentally-friendly in the skies."

Emirates received its first Boeing 777 in 1996. The airline recently completed an upgrade program on all its 777s that equipped the airplanes with Emirates' award-winning ICE (Information, Communication, Entertainment) system, offering passengers in every cabin up to 1,000 channels of on-demand entertainment.

"The 777 is the world's most successful twin-engine, long-haul airplane and Emirates has contributed significantly to the 777 program's success, both in becoming the now largest 777 airline customer and through its continued feedback on quality step improvements we've made to the airplane," said Marty Bentrott, vice president of Sales for the Middle East, Central and South Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "With suppliers around the world contributing to and benefitting from 777 production, Emirates' investment toward building the world's largest Boeing 777 fleet has played a role in maintaining and strengthening the global aviation manufacturing industry."

FMI: www.boeing.com