Emirates President Tim Clark: Rolls-Royce Engines Remain the Key Obstacle to an A350-1000 Order
Tim Clark has stated that the primary obstacle preventing Emirates from ordering the Airbus A350-1000 is not the aircraft itself, but the Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines that power it.
Clark said Emirates has yet to see sufficient progress regarding the durability of the Trent XWB-97 in the hot and dusty operating environment of the Middle East. He noted that unless the issue is resolved, the airline is not considering placing an order for the A350-1000.
“The situation with the XWB-97 remains much the same as it has been in the past. I know they are working hard to solve the problem,” Clark said.
Having previously voiced concerns about engine performance, Clark also referenced the compensation package of Tufan Erginbilgiç, arguing that engine manufacturers need to do a better job of meeting the operational requirements of airlines.
Clark added that engine supply constraints and delivery delays have left large numbers of aircraft grounded worldwide, creating significant challenges across the aviation industry.
Although Emirates has long been regarded as one of the most important potential customers for the Airbus A350-1000, the engine issue continues to be the main point of disagreement between the airline and the manufacturers.
