Boeing talks with Emirates airline could boost 747-8 sales

The Boeing Co. could see a sales boost for its 747-8 jet following talks with Dubai-based airline Emirates.

Emirates, the world's biggest operator of Boeing rival Airbus' A380 superjumbo aircraft, might instead start using the 747-8 in its fleet. The airline is seeking better fuel burn on its largest jets.

Emirates also is the biggest buyer of Boeing's popular 777 aircraft.

According to Bloomberg BusinessWeek, Boeing's 747-8 program has struggled to gain customers, forcing the company to cut production rates.