Emirates has announced a significant investment in the French and European aviation manufacturing ecosystem. The airline has awarded a series of contracts worth over US$1.2 billion to Safran during the Dubai Airshow.
New Seats for Emirates A350, 777X Fleet
As part of this agreement, Safran will provide best-in-class seats for Emirates’ new A350, 777X-9, and B777-300 fleet. Safran will also provide cabin equipment, wheels, carbon brakes, landing gear component repairs, retrofit, and MRO support.
One notable aspect of the deal is a US$1 billion contract for the latest generation of Safran Seats. The airline has selected these seats for its new Airbus A350, Boeing 777X-9, and existing Boeing 777-300 aircraft.
Emirates intends the new seats in Business, Premium Economy, and Economy classes to offer unparalleled comfort, privacy, and convenience. They feature spacious layouts, luxurious finishes, and cutting-edge technology, setting a new standard for air travel.
Safran is also collaborating with Emirates on its retrofit program. It involves installing new seats on the Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 aircraft.
Significant Export Opportunity for French Company
This investment is also a significant export opportunity for a French company. It highlights Emirates’ commitment to supporting the local industry and the wider European market.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline said: “Safran is a key partner for Emirates, and we’re working closely to reimagine and elevate our future cabins with smart design and the latest technologies. These have been decisive factors in our selection of seat types which will be customized for Emirates. Today’s announcement is significant not only because it cements the partnership between Emirates and Safran but also because it supports aviation manufacturing and the wider value chain in France and across Europe.”
“Safran is very proud of our longstanding strategic alliance with Emirates,” said Safran CEO Olivier Andriès. “The continuation of our 30-year partnership underscores Safran’s commitment to innovative solutions for aircraft interiors, critical aircraft equipment and services to ensure the best possible passenger experience. Today’s agreements set the stage for Safran’s continued growth along with our customer, a leader in the global market. More than ever, we are looking ahead to the future.”
Safran Will Supply Galleys for A350 and B777
In addition to providing seats, Safran Cabin will supply Emirates’ A350 fleet with Galley shipsets. These will adhere to the airline’s high standards of quality and design. These Galleys for the A350 and B777-9 aircraft will have advanced features, efficiency, and technology. Features include the GEMini and the new high-end NUVO galley inserts.
Safran Landing Systems On Emirates A350 Fleet
Safran Landing Systems will supply high-performance wheels and carbon brakes to the Emirates A350 fleet. These brakes offer significant weight savings and a unique design that provides better cooling. This results in shorter turnaround times (TAT) and increased fleet availability.
Regarding maintenance, Safran Landing Systems will exclusively provide nose landing gear overhaul services for the Emirates A380 fleet. With their extensive network of facilities in Singapore and France, Safran Landing Systems can support Emirates throughout the A380’s landing systems lifecycle.
Emirates Improves In-Flight Connectivity with Safran’s RAVE AeroConnect Ka Solution
Emirates will benefit from Safran Passenger Innovations’ RAVE AeroConnect Ka solution, enabling connectivity across multiple providers and frequencies. This comprehensive solution aims to disrupt the inflight connectivity status quo. It offers Emirates unparalleled flexibility in entertainment options and provider choices. The airline will install Safran’s agnostic satcom connectivity solution on 50 Airbus A350, 60 Airbus A380, and 50 Boeing 777X-9 aircraft.
Safety And Cabin Systems Repair and Maintenance Agreement
Additionally, Emirates has entered into a 10-year service agreement with Safran Aerosystems to repair and maintain Boeing 777 safety and cabin systems components. Safran Aerosystems’ Middle East facility in Dubai, close to Al-Maktoum Airport, will deliver maintenance services that enhance Emirates’ operational efficiency.