Fuel-efficient Boeing pursues Emirates

Boeing is talking to Emirates, the world’s biggest operator of the Airbus A380 superjumbo, about a potential purchase of the 747-8, as the airline seeks more fuel-efficient carriage of large passenger numbers.

The need for better fuel burn by Emirates on its largest jets has opened a window of opportunity for Boeing, which has begun discussions about the 747-8, said John Wojick, senior vice president for sales and marketing at Boeing.

Emirates has bought more than a quarter of all A380s produced, with plans to receive its 50th A380 next month. The airline said last week it wanted Airbus to put newer engines on its A380 to make the double-decker more efficient.