Dubai – Mubasher: Emirates Airline on Thursday announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Airbus to acquire up to 36 A380 jets.

The $16 billion deal includes a confirmed order for 20 planes, along with an option for 16 further, according to a company statement.

“Some of the new A380s we’ve just ordered will be used as fleet replacements. This order will provide stability to the A380 production line,” said Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates’ chairman.

The new jets are planned to be delivered in 2020, Emirates revealed.  

"This new order underscores Airbus’ commitment to produce the A380 at least for another ten years. I’m personally convinced more orders will follow Emirates’ example and that this great aircraft will be built well into the 2030s,” John Leahy, chief operating officer – customers at Airbus, commented.