In 2019,
Dubai was our second most booked international destination after Singapore.
With such high demand, we thought it only right that we bring you the low down
on one of the most popular carriers and aircraft.
Emirates is
a subsidiary of the Emirates Group, owned by the government of Dubai. They were
founded in 1985 and have a hub at Dubai International Airport. The airline is
famous for their friendly and diverse crew. On any Emirates flight there may be
up to 12 different nationalities of cabin crew. Between them, they may speak up
to 18 different languages in order to provide a comprehensive service to all
passengers.
The
Emirates A380 fleet is one of the largest operated Airbus A380 fleets in the
world. On a daily basis six fly from Heathrow, two from Stansted, three from
Manchester and two from Birmingham. There are also twenty Emirates A380 flights
a week from Gatwick.
An Emirates
A380 aircraft with three cabin classes has a total passenger capacity of 517.
Last month I was able to enjoy an in-depth tour of this aircraft, and now have
the pleasure of sharing my in-depth knowledge of each cabin.
Economy
427 seats in
a 3-4-3 configuration make up the economy cabin and entire main floor of the
Emirates A380 aircraft. Seats are 18 inches in width and benefit from a 32-34
inch pitch. This cabin is divided into four sections. Each section break is
found around the exits, with toilets and galleys here also.
Power ports
can be found inbetween seats and WiFi is available to all passengers,
regardless of cabin class. All economy seats recline back a short way, allowing
for more relaxed viewing of the hundreds of movies and shows available on the
ICE entertainment system. In fact there are some 4,500 channels available!
Business
At the tail
end of the plane is a spiral staircase leading to the Emirates A380 business
class. Unfortunately, this staircase is out of bounds to economy passengers.
From here, you enter a small but sociable area with the famous Emirates bar
taking central stage.
Business
class seats are in a staggered 1-2-1 formation, with middle seating in every
other row being perfect for couples. All 76 business class seats are 18.5
inches in width with a 48 inch pitch. These seats transform into spacious and
comfortable lie-flat beds, with some bedding, eyemasks and earplugs provided.
Ample storage, amenities, working space, power outlets and WiFi are all additional benefits for business class. The food menu is also a vast improvement on menus available in economy, both in terms of quality and variation.
First Class on the Emirates A380
Now we get
to the seriously impressive stuff from Emirates. 14 seats make up the exclusive
first class cabin complete with two spa showers. As with business class
seating, the arrangement is a staggered 1-2-1 formation. Privacy screens and
privacy doors enable passengers to completely cocoon themselves into their
suite. The lie-flat seat is exceptionally comfortable at a massive 23 inches
wide and spacious 86 inches pitch. An undisturbed and supremely comfortable sleep
is available with the premium quality mattress topper, duvet and pillow.
The storage
is ornate and luxurious, with a stocked vanity area and mini bar. No overhead
bins are required, as a full-sized carry on fits securely within the suite. A 27
inch screen dominates the front view and a tablet allows you to lay back and
control everything remotely. Meals are beautifully presented and paired to
perfection with extravagant fine wines and champagnes.
To top off
the luxury experience, take a shower at 40,000 feet! These two large cubicles
are well stocked with fresh towels, luxury toiletries, skincare and hair
products.
Do you want to discover the Emirates A380 experience yourself?
Get in touch with us today and explore our services and exclusive corporate fares with Emirates!