Emirates is considering flights from Dubai to Denver, Detroit and Philadelphia, according to airline president Tim Clark. These cities are among a longer list of possible destinations. The airline last added a US destination in 2021, when it began flying to Miami instead of nearby Fort Lauderdale.
More efficient aircraft could allow Emirates to serve additional cities profitably. It has ordered more than 300 planes, including Airbus A350s, Boeing 787s and Boeing 777Xs. Clark expects the first Boeing 777-9s, with 300 to 400 seats, to arrive in 2027. The aircraft was originally expected in 2020.
Emirates remains committed to expansion despite conflicts involving Iran and the Houthis in Yemen. Clark says demand remains strong, with flights to Bangkok still full. The airline also remains profitable despite high fuel prices. Its cooperation with United Airlines began in 2023 and includes shared flight sales and linked traveler rewards programs. Denver is the only United hub—a main airport for connecting flights—that Emirates does not already serve. Under their agreement, United started flying between Newark and Dubai. However, United suspended that service in February after US and Israeli attacks on Iran.
