Emirates seeks Rolls-Royce a380 engine deal, nothing finalised

Emirates is edging towards a deal with Rolls-Royce to power its latest Airbus A380 superjumbos but has not yet reached a final agreement, the airline said Sunday. The fate of a lifeline order for up to 36 of the double-decker aircraft, of which Emirates already has over 100 in operation, has been widely questioned due to inconclusive talks over a separate deal between Emirates and engine makers. "We are getting closer (to a deal with Rolls-Royce) but have not crossed the line yet," a spokesperson for carrier said. A French newspaper last week reported the two sides had reached an agreement. Industry sources have said Emirates is unhappy with the performance of Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engines on A380s already in service and that a shortfall in efficiency has meant Rolls-Royce having to pay hefty penalties. <br/>