Despite its interest in the Airbus A350-1000, Emirates continues to have concerns over the Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engine that powers the aircraft. Emirates President Sir Tim Clark has previously raised concerns about the engine’s durability, particularly in Dubai’s high temperatures and sandy operating environment.
The airline already operates the smaller Airbus A350-900, powered by Trent XWB-84 engines, and has spoken positively about the aircraft. However, maintenance intervals and the durability of the more powerful XWB-97 engine under demanding environmental conditions remain key issues preventing Emirates from placing an order for the A350-1000.
With its high passenger capacity and long range, the A350-1000 is considered a potential fit for Emirates’ widebody network. Delays to the Boeing 777X programme have also increased the importance of alternative options for the airline’s future long-haul widebody fleet.
However, Emirates has yet to place an order for the A350-1000 as it awaits greater confidence in the durability of Rolls-Royce’s Trent XWB-97 engine.
