"Our order for the 747-8Fs will be essential in helping us service our rapidly growing network of 28 freighter destinations," Al-Maktoum said. But what is drawing attention is what is being said behind the scenes, as EK now is seen as the likely launch airline for the 747-8 Intercontinental. It was examining the passenger version back in May and one executive told ATWOnline that it was very interested in the aircraft for Dubai-US West Coast operations.
Emirates President Tim Clark has confirmed that discussions with Boeing are ongoing regarding specifications for the 747-8I. The carrier was thought to be interested in the type as a replacement for the order for 18 A340-600IGWs cancelled earlier this year, although Airbus still shows it on its order book.
