Emirates goes for the jugular - 14% capacity increase planned for 2009, 18 new widebody aircraft

As airlines around the world slash their networks and defer or cancel aircraft orders amid a sharp downturn in demand, Emirates has confirmed plans to expand its seat capacity by 14% in 2009 with the addition of 18 new passenger aircraft - all widebodies. Emirates Sky Cargo will increase its cargo capacity by 17% this year.