Emirates Airline's market cap could reach $40 bln upon flotation, says founder

Emirates Airline’s market capitalization ​could stand at $40 billion, if the carrier plans to launch a public offering, said founder Sir Maurice Flanagan.

“Converting the airline into a public shareholding company was on the table almost ten years ago. However, I believe that the Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid, does not support this idea,” Arabian Business quoted Flanagan as saying.

Listing the Emirates shares will pay off, as it will undermine claims that state support cross-subsidizes the airline, masking its true financial performance. Therefore, it will be deemed just like any other carrier.

Emirates rank among the world’s most transparent airlines, Flanagan told reporters in Capital Club Dubai.