The wait is almost over: Emirates will begin selling tickets for its highly anticipated premium economy cabins on June 1, 2022.
Initially, premium economy will be available on flights between Dubai (DXB) and London-Heathrow (LHR), Paris (CDG), and Sydney (SYD) from August 1, 2022, and between Dubai (DXB) and Christchurch, New Zealand (CHC) from December.
“As with everything we do, Emirates premium economy will be exceptional in its class, with minute attention given to every aspect of the customer service,” said Sir Tim Clark, President and CEO of Emirates Airline. “Customers trading up from economy will be getting excellent value.”
Here’s what you need to know about the most exciting premium economy cabin to grace the skies in quite a while.
Premium Economy: Coming to an Emirates Flight Near You
Emirates will be the only carrier of the 3 major players in the Middle East to offer premium economy to its passengers. This will give the airline an advantage as it will be better suited to capture the business of travelers who are transiting in the region but want to have a more luxurious experience than they would in standard economy.
The airline is starting relatively small with its premium economy rollout, but it’s just the beginning.
“We currently have 6 A380s equipped with this class, which limits our initial deployment, but our intention is to offer this experience to many more markets across our network,” said Sir Clark. “This November, we will begin our retrofit [program] to install premium economy on 67 A380s and 53 Boeing 777s.”
Originally, the airline said it would feature premium economy on 40% of its aircraft and that the initial destinations to welcome the cabin would be New York (JFK) and Frankfurt (FRA). However, both these destinations do not feature in this first round of service, per a press release from the airline.
Hot Tip: Find out how you can earn lots of Emirates Skywards miles so you can try the legendary Emirates experience for yourself without breaking the bank.
On the ground, passengers holding premium economy tickets — along with Emirates Skywards Silver members — will be eligible to use brand-new dedicated check-in desks at Dubai (DXB).
Emirates premium economy check-in at Dubai (DXB). Image Credit: EmiratesEmirates premium economy seats boast up to 40 inches of pitch and 8 inches of recline that the airline is referring to as the “cradle position.” Passengers will also be able to make use of an extendable footrest that features calf support.
The inflight dining experience will be a considerable upgrade compared to what you’d get in economy. Passengers can expect a welcome drink and a business class-inspired meal served on proper china. To finish off the meal, there will be a choice of liqueurs and chocolates.
On A380s equipped with 4 cabins, premium economy will be found in a prime position at the front of the lower deck, offering superb views over the wings and engines of the superjumbo jet.
Final Thoughts
Emirates’ long-awaited premium economy will soon be bookable on A380 flights between its hub in Dubai and Christchurch, London-Heathrow, Paris, and Sydney.
While no U.S. cities will see the new product during its initial rollout, it shouldn’t be too much longer, as the airline plans to expand the offering to many more markets across its network.
Featured Image Credit:
Emirates