Emirates has today confirmed an order for 50 A350-900 aircraft powered by Trent XWB engines.

As it approaches five years in service, the Trent XWB, the world’s most efficient large aero engine, has now achieved more than five million flying hours in service with 29 operators flying to 130 destinations and demonstrated an excellent dispatch reliability of 99.9 per cent.

This is the Power of Trent – a family of seven engines, which have completed more than 140 million flying hours since the very first engine, a Trent 700, went into service in 1995.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates Chairman and Chief Executive said: “Today, we are pleased to sign a firm order for 50 A350 XWBs, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. This follows a thorough review of various aircraft options and of our own fleet plans. It is Emirates’ long-standing strategy to invest in modern and efficient aircraft, and we are confident in the performance of the A350 XWB.

“Complementing our A380s and 777s, the A350s will give us added operational flexibility in terms of capacity, range and deployment. In effect, we are strengthening our business model to provide efficient and comfortable air transport services to, and through, our Dubai hub.”

Sheikh Ahmed added: “This US$ 16 billion deal reflects our confidence in the future of the UAE’s aviation sector, and is a strong affirmation of Dubai’s strategy to be a global nexus connected to cities, communities and economies via a world-class and modern aviation sector.”

Chris Cholerton, Rolls-Royce, President – Civil Aerospace, said: “We are very proud that Emirates has chosen to enhance its fleet with the A350-900 powered by our Trent XWB.

“We appreciate the trust placed in us by Emirates, which reflects the confidence they have in the performance of this engine.

“We look forward to this order further enhancing our partnership for decades to come.”

Rolls-Royce’s relationship with Emirates began in 1996 with selection of Trent power and this Trent XWB will be the fourth member of the Trent family to operate in their fleet.