Aer Rianta has held talks in recent weeks with Dubai-based long-haul carrier Emirates Air.

The talks were described yesterday as "exploratory", but they may be pursued in the months ahead by the incoming Dublin Airport Authority. This body, chaired by Smurfit executive Mr Gary McGann, takes over from Aer Rianta on Friday.

The exploratory talks with Emirates took place on the margins of a major international aviation conference.

If Emirates signed a deal with Dublin airport, it might involve flights to Dublin from Dubai or other major Middle Eastern destinations.

Only last week, Aer Rianta agreed a deal with easyJet, which is planning to fly into Cork, Shannon and Knock from early next year.

If a deal could be agreed with Emirates, it would represent a major advance for Dublin Airport as the number of long-haul carriers operating at the airport at present is small.

Emirates is one of the fastest-growing airlines in the world and has received more than 250 international awards for excellence since it was set up in 1985. It flies to more than 70 destinations in 50 countries in Europe, the Middle East, the Far East, Africa, Asia and Australia. The airline uses Dubai International Airport as its base.

The airline is a well-known operator in the British market and operates flights from airports in Glasgow, London and Birmingham. It also sponsors Chelsea football club.