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Emirates CEO sees room for more US destinations

May 1, 2012 RSS Feed Print

A: Yeah, I think I always say, if it is the right time, it's possible.

Q: How are fuel prices affecting your business?

A: For (fiscal) 2011/2012, they've been up from the previous year. It's nearly 40 to 43 percent of our cost, and that's really hitting our bottom line. It is something that we as an airline cannot do much about. Ok, you have hedging ... but it's not as simple as a lot of people think.

Q: As one of the only operators of the A380, are you satisfied with the steps Airbus is taking with the wing crack issue?

A: We are a big player in this program. If it wasn't for Emirates and its order of 90 (A380s), maybe this program would not be able to go through. All the orders from the other airlines are very small compared to Emirates'. We believe in the product of the A380s.

We are very closely working with some of the problems with the A380 ... and I think Airbus is trying to do their best to rectify this problem. Because at the end of the day ... we always try to ensure the safety of our passengers.

Q: So you're not planning to adjust or delay any orders?

A: We have nothing planned. Nothing like that.

Q: You have a lot of jobs in Dubai. How do you manage all of that, and how do you keep your eye on Emirates?

A: I have good management. And I'm sure that they're doing all their best to keep the business growing, and the product quality, and ensure it's up to the standard we want to see.

Q: How often do you get to fly on your own airline?

A: Actually I was flying with Emirates to India about four weeks ago, five weeks ago.

Q: Always first class?

A: I think, because ... (Clears throat) ... Most of the time. Maybe once I flew business, or once I flew in the cockpit. But most of the time.

___

Online: www.emirates.com/

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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