DUBAI— Emirates Airline (EK) is purchasing four Airbus A380s from Doric Nimrod Air Three Limited, an investment firm based in Guernsey.
The $180 million deal involves aircraft previously leased by Emirates from London Heathrow (LHR), with deliveries scheduled between August and November 2025.
Photo: Clément AlloingEmirates Buys Four A380s
Emirates has confirmed the acquisition of four Airbus A380 aircraft from Doric Nimrod Air Three Limited.
The jets, bearing manufacturer serial numbers (MSNs) 132, 133, 134, and 136, have been operating under a 12-year lease agreement since 2013.
Each aircraft is priced at $45 million, comprising $25 million for the aircraft itself and $20 million to fulfill lease return condition obligations. The first handover, MSN 133, is scheduled for August 27, 2025, to accommodate off-site maintenance outside Dubai International Airport (DXB).
Photo: EmiratesWhy Emirates is Buying Used A380s?
The original leases were tailored specifically for Emirates in 2013. As the 12-year term concludes, Emirates is opting for outright ownership instead of lease renewal.
At $25 million per aircraft, the residual market value for these A380s is significantly lower than their original cost. This makes ownership financially practical, especially compared to entering new lease agreements, which may not have been available on favorable terms.
Emirates is currently executing a $2 billion retrofit program across its fleet, with many A380s undergoing cabin refurbishment.
By owning these aircraft, Emirates gains complete flexibility to perform structural upgrades and systems modifications without third-party approval.
Emirates Airbus A380 | Photo: Clément AlloingLong-Term Commitment to the A380 Platform
Despite Airbus ending A380 production in 2021, Emirates remains committed to the aircraft type. The carrier has received 123 A380s in total—more than any other airline globally—cementing its role as the model’s largest operator and biggest proponent.
Emirates’ history with the A380 began at the 2000 Farnborough Air Show, where it placed the first official order for the aircraft (then called the A3XX). A year later, it doubled its order at the Dubai Air Show, showcasing long-term confidence in the superjumbo.
In 2021, Emirates received the final A380 ever built, closing the chapter on production while signaling intent to operate the type well into the 2030s.
Photo: JFK SpottingA380 Remains Core to Emirates’ Global Strategy
While most airlines have retired the A380 from their fleets, Emirates continues deploying it on high-demand routes such as London Heathrow (LHR), Sydney (SYD), and New York (JFK). The aircraft was even reintroduced to Copenhagen (CPH) in January 2025 after a multi-year absence.
The A380’s high capacity and premium cabin configurations align with Emirates’ network model, centered around long-haul, high-volume travel through Dubai International Airport (DXB).
By acquiring and upgrading more A380s, Emirates reinforces its belief in sustained demand for spacious, premium-heavy service across its global network.
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