With a fleet of over a hundred A380 superjumbos, Emirates continues to be a strong advocate for the double-decker aircraft, which Airbus discontinued in 2021. Emirates president Sir Tim Clark is urging Airbus to revive the A380 while incorporating the latest technologies to enhance the new model—often referred to as the A380neo—making it more successful than its predecessor.
“I’ve presented a design to Airbus for a new aircraft that would be 25% cheaper to operate and significantly more fuel-efficient than the current model,” Clark shared with Executive Traveller during a brief visit to Melbourne. He added, “Airbus responded by saying, ‘If you provide us with €20 billion, we’ll make it happen!’”
Clark countered that the substantial investment responsibility lies with Airbus, stating, “If you build them, we’ll buy them.”
To create a lighter and more fuel-efficient A380neo, Clark envisions utilizing modern composite materials similar to those used in the Airbus A350 for the wings and fuselage. He highlighted that composites were not prevalent when the original A380 was developed in the 2000s. “We now have a deeper understanding of the A380 than we did back then,” Clark explained. “The tailfin is too large, the wings require modification… all of this is part of the enhancements in newer aircraft generations.”
Efficient engines will play a crucial role in minimizing the A380neo’s fuel consumption, making it more appealing to airlines. Clark is optimistic about the potential of the UltraFan engine being developed by Rolls-Royce, describing it as “a revolution in power” if successfully introduced. “It features a much larger fan requiring less fuel to operate, along with impressive thrust capabilities, making it ideal for the A380,” he said.
Clark’s vision for the A380neo promises “at least a 20-25% reduction in fuel consumption,” which he believes would reinstate the appeal of the large, four-engine double-decker aircraft known for its substantial passenger capacity.
Furthermore, passengers would surely appreciate the return of the superjumbo, which introduced a new era of travel, particularly for its luxurious first-class suites equipped with showers and a cocktail bar at the rear of the upper deck.
