Looks like he picked up the phone...

"Today’s announcement of the largest Boeing order by catalog value for 50 of its 777-300ERs plus options for 20 by Emirates worth $US 18 billion brings to mind something that airline’s president, Tim Clark, was reported as saying in March last year in relation to the importance of the Airbus A350 in replacing aging A330s and older model 777s."

If Airbus significantly delays the A350, Emirates would have to keep these aircraft longer which would then exceed its usual aircraft aged of around 10 years.

Mr Clarke said that unlike the A380 aircraft – which was two years late – Emirates could find alternatives to the A350 if there was a delay.

“All I have to do is pick up the phone and order more Boeing 777s,” Clark threatened.