Toulouse-based aircraft manufacturer Airbus has confirmed that Dubai-based Emirates airline has cancelled its order of 70 A350 XWB planes.

In a statement on its website, Airbus said, “The decision follows ongoing discussions with the airline in light of their fleet requirement review, as demonstrated by their order of 50 additional A380s at the last Dubai Airshow and their continuous interest in the programme.”

“Airbus and Emirates airline benefit from a long-standing relationship and the airline recently reiterated its confidence in Airbus products, particularly by praising the A380 and the benefits the aircraft brings to their operations,” the statement added.

The order of 50 A350-900 and 20 A350-1000 planes was originally placed by Emirates in 2007, with the first delivery slots scheduled from 2019.

The manufacturer said it remains confident in the aircraft. “Airbus is very confident in its A350 XWB programme. Half a year before entry into service, the A350 XWB order book stands at a healthy 742 firm orders. The A350 flight test campaign is progressing well and is on track for type certification in the coming months.

“Interest in the game-changing A350 has always been very high with customers. Airbus expects the A350 order book to continue growing in 2014,” the statement said.