It is the usual first day order frenzy at the Dubai Air Show and as we predicted Qatar, Emirates and Etihad all order the 777X, but the A380 confounds expectations

Emirates today placed an order for 50 A380s. A wise move and, if we look at the facts, it is surprising that more orders for the type are limited to just Emirates. If you look across the Emirates route network at the A380 load figures then you have to admit that they need more as soon as possible. I doubt if other airlines will be able to compete with the economics of the A380 in the near future, especially as Emirates increase frequency on popular routes with the type. I foresee other airlines not getting a look-in on some routes