The Emirates A350 is the first new aircraft type to join Emirates’ fleet since 2008. — Photo courtesy of Emirates
Emirates has officially unveiled the very first Airbus A350-900 to join its fleet at an event showcase in Dubai.
The Emirates A350 features three cabin classes, accommodating 312 passengers in 32 next-generation Business Class lie-flat seats, 21 Premium Economy seats and 259 Economy Class seats.
The latest onboard products reflect the airline’s commitment to delivering a premium passenger experience while optimising operational efficiency, according to a company statement. The Emirates A350 is the first new aircraft type to join Emirates’ fleet since 2008.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group said: “Today is an exciting milestone for Emirates as we showcase our first A350 and usher in a new era for our fleet and network growth. This aircraft sets the stage for Emirates to spread its wings farther by offering added range, efficiency and flexibility to our network, enabling us to meet customer demand in new markets and unlock new opportunities in the cities that we serve."
"The 65 Emirates A350s joining our fleet in the next few years fit into the airline’s broader plans to support our visionary leadership’s Dubai D33 Strategy, which will transform the city into a pivotal hub in the global economy by expanding its connectivity and reach,” he added.
Apart from its newly delivered A350, Emirates operates two other aircraft types to 140 destinations around the world: the wide-body Boeing 777 aircraft and the iconic ‘double decker’ Airbus A380 aircraft. The A350’s introduction will enable Emirates to expand into new destinations globally, including mid-sized airports unsuited for larger aircraft. The Emirates A350 will be delivered in two versions, one for regional routes and one for ultra-long-haul routes.
The airline plans to make its first scheduled commercial A350 flight to Edinburgh on January 3, 2025. In the months to follow, customers can look forward to experiencing the Emirates A350 at existing points like Bahrain, Muscat and Kuwait, Lyon and Bologna in Europe, and Colombo, Mumbai and Ahmedabad in West Asia. — VNS