European aerospace manufacturer Airbus has revealed it will cease production of its premier superjumbo commercial jet, the A380.
According to the company, the decision was made following Emirates Airlines’ announcement that it would reduce its A380 orders from 162 to 123 aircraft.
Following the announcement from the Middle East carrier, as well as the small backlog of orders for the aircraft, Airbus is scheduled to end deliveries for the A380 by 2021.
The development is expected to have wider implications for the company’s employee base in the UK, where parts of the aircraft are made.
In a statement detailing the decision, Tom Enders, CEO of Airbus, shared: “The A380 is not only an outstanding engineering and industrial achievement. Passengers all over the world love to fly on this great aircraft. Hence today’s announcement is painful for us and the A380 communities worldwide.
“But keep in mind that A380s will still roam the skies for many years to come and Airbus will, of course, continue to fully support the A380 operators.”
According to the aerospace manufacturer, Emirates Airlines has yet to receive delivery of 14 A380s.
Despite the setback with the A380 line, Airbus has revealed that the Middle East carrier has moved to acquire 40 A330-900 and 30 A350-900 aircraft.
