Airbus expects more than 50 passenger aircraft orders from Middle East/North Africa in 2010

Airbus President Middle East, Habib Fekih, stated Airbus is on track to secure orders for over 50 passenger aircraft from Middle East and North African airlines in 2010 (Euronews/Business Times/Reuters, 09-Aug-2010). He commented that recovery in the region is "faster than expected", adding that "traffic is growing, demand is back." Mr Fekih stated Airbus has been working with two scenarios for orders from the region: a conservative scenario of approximately 50 aircraft and a more bullish forecast of up to 80 aircraft, adding: "I think we still have a chance to do something in between". Mr Fekih also commented: "There are two to three airlines in the region that could easily absorb the A380. Egyptair is one, Saudi Arabian Airlines is another", continuing: "I don't exclude some interest from these customers".