Emirates is evaluating Denver, Detroit and Philadelphia as potential additions to its network from Dubai, president Tim Clark said during the Routes World conference. The cities form part of a much longer list of possibilities. Emirates last added a US destination in 2021, replacing Fort Lauderdale service with Miami flights; its last entirely new US destination was Newark in 2017.
The airline expects more efficient aircraft to expand the number of destinations it can serve profitably. Its order book exceeds 300 Airbus A350s, Boeing 787s and Boeing 777Xs. The first 777-9s, configured with 300 to 400 seats, are expected in 2027, seven years after their originally scheduled arrival. Emirates may also switch some recent 777-9 orders to the smaller 777-8 or a possible larger 777-10.
Clark said expansion remains a priority despite conflicts involving Iran and the Houthis in Yemen. Demand remains strong, including on Bangkok flights, which continue to operate full, while Emirates remains profitable despite elevated jet fuel prices. The dominant airline at Dubai International Airport has also benefited from several Western airlines suspending flights. Its US opportunities sit alongside a partnership with United Airlines, launched in 2023 through codesharing and linked loyalty programs. Denver is the only United hub Emirates does not already serve. United introduced Newark–Dubai service under the agreement but suspended it in February following US and Israeli attacks on Iran.
