Tim Clark Criticizes Boeing Over 777X Delays, Comments on Airbus, COMAC, and Dubai Airport Capacity
During a press conference at ITB Berlin 2025, Emirates President Sir Tim Clark criticized Boeing for delays in delivering the 777X, stating that Emirates should have received 90 aircraft by now but hasn’t received a single one. As a result, the airline is investing $5 billion to upgrade its existing fleet with new first-class and premium economy cabins.
Clark also voiced concerns about the Airbus A350-900’s limited capacity, while praising the A380 as the best aircraft in the world, highlighting that Emirates’ A380s currently fly with an 85% load factor.
He expressed openness to Chinese manufacturer COMAC, suggesting the aviation market has room for a third major player once COMAC reduces reliance on Western components.
Finally, Clark noted that Dubai International Airport is reaching its capacity limits. The new Al Maktoum Airport is expected to become fully operational between 2032–2034. Until then, Emirates aims to expand its current infrastructure to handle up to 120 million passengers annually.
