Emirates President Tim Clark Says Plane Makers Are Causing Delivery Delays
Emirates Airline President Tim Clark has reportedly spoken out against aircraft makers, blaming them for ongoing supply chain problems. He said these delays are making it hard for airlines to update their planes and grow their businesses, and he wants the manufacturers to take responsibility.
Strong Criticism
At a press event during the International Air Transport Association (IATA) meeting in New Delhi, Emirates airline president Tim Clark strongly criticized aircraft makers Boeing and Airbus for ongoing delivery problems.
“I’m tired of hearing complaints about supply chain problems — you are the supply chain,” Clark said, according to Reuters. He urged the companies to fix the real causes of delays, which are often linked to their suppliers.
The aircraft industry is struggling to keep up with production. Boeing is dealing with serious quality problems and had to stop making most of its planes in 2024 due to a labor strike. Airbus is also facing delays and has warned airlines that deliveries might be pushed back another three years because of ongoing supply issues.
Emirates is especially affected by these delays. The airline wants to replace older planes with newer, fuel-efficient ones to meet growing travel demand and cut emissions. Emirates has ordered 205 Boeing 777X planes, but that program is already six years late. The first deliveries are now expected to begin in 2026.
Clark said Emirates has been told it may receive its first 777X between late 2026 and early 2027.
Tariff Worries
On wider industry matters, Clark said Emirates hasn’t seen any change in passenger demand yet due to new U.S. tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump. He believes GE Aerospace — a company that supplies engines for some of Emirates’ planes — will likely take on most of the extra costs from the tariffs.
Clark also mentioned continuing problems with Rolls-Royce, another key engine supplier. He has previously criticized the British company for engine issues, especially in the very hot conditions of the Gulf region.
Published: 2nd June 2025
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