Originally Posted by
glofish
I guess the somewhat antiquated NEOs are simply available earlier than the modern and more desired 350ies. And EK desperately needs smaller equipment but came too late on to the order sheet for either 787 or 350.
To keep both on the order list, with an eventual withdrawal looming, might put pressure on both manufacturers.
A common (but lame) ruse by airlines
I suspect you're correct about being able to pick up the A330 NEOs much sooner - the 787, 777X, and A350 order books are pretty much full for the next five years. The A330 is really the only widebody out there that has significant open delivery spots near term.