DUBAI- Emirates Airline (EK) has secured financing for five of six new Airbus A350-900 aircraft through a Japanese Operating Lease with Call Option (JOLCO) arranged by HSBC, marking its return to the JOLCO market after six years. Financing for the sixth aircraft is currently in progress.
The agreement supports Emirates’ fleet renewal and expansion strategy, helping the airline diversify funding sources while ensuring flexibility and cost efficiency in its aircraft acquisition plans.
Emirates Financing A350 Fleet
This latest JOLCO financing marks another milestone in Emirates’ long-standing partnership with HSBC.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, met with Georges Elhedery, Group CEO of HSBC Holdings Plc, to commemorate the transaction that highlights over four decades of cooperation between the two institutions.
HSBC first supported Emirates in acquiring its inaugural aircraft, establishing a financial relationship that has continued to evolve in scale and sophistication.
Mohamed Al Marzooqi, CEO of HSBC Bank Middle East Limited, noted that the partnership reflects mutual confidence in the strength and future of the UAE’s aviation sector.
As HSBC approaches its 80th anniversary in the UAE, the collaboration underscores the bank’s commitment to connecting major national carriers with global capital markets, enabling continued investment in aviation infrastructure and innovation.
Expanding the A350 Fleet
The Airbus A350-900 joined Emirates’ fleet in November 2024, forming a key part of its next-generation aircraft program.
Designed with advanced aerodynamics, lightweight composite materials, and fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines, the model offers approximately 25% lower fuel burn and CO₂ emissions compared to older widebody jets.
The introduction of the A350 aligns with Emirates’ broader sustainability goals and supports Dubai International Airport (DXB) operations with a modern, more efficient fleet.
The aircraft is well-suited for medium- to long-haul routes, expanding the airline’s network reach while maintaining high passenger comfort standards.
Reinforcing a Global Leadership Position
Over the years, Emirates and HSBC have collaborated on several landmark financial transactions, including the aviation industry’s first Export Credit Agency–guaranteed Sukuk, which at the time was the largest ECA-backed debt capital markets deal.
This latest financing arrangement demonstrates Emirates’ proactive approach to funding, combining innovation and financial discipline.
It also reaffirms the airline’s position as one of the world’s leading carriers, focused on sustainable fleet growth and long-term operational excellence.
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