Dubai: Emirates helped National Day celebrations get under way as its Airbus A380 flew into Hong Kong for the first time just hours before a dazzling fireworks display lit up the iconic harbour skyline.
With festivities in full swing across the city, the superjumbo landed at Hong Kong International Airport to mark the start of its daily A380 service connecting Hong Kong and Dubai via Bangkok.
EK384 was welcomed with a water cannon salute as Hong Kong became the 11th destination on Emirates' global network to be served by one of the most environmentally advanced commercial aircraft.
Richard Jewsbury, Emirates Senior Vice-President of Commercial Operations, Far East and Australasia, said: "It was tremendous that our Airbus A380 made its maiden flight to Hong Kong on a day of national celebration.
"Hong Kong is a thriving commercial hub and — along with Greater China — is integral to the future growth of the world economy. The 517-seat double-decker will help meet the growing demand for seats on this route, particularly in Business and First Class, while offering our passengers the chance to enjoy the premium A380 experience."
The aircraft was also warmly received by Hong Kong International Airport. Stanley Hui, Chief Executive Officer of Airport Authority Hong Kong, said: "We have a long established relationship with Emirates which goes back to 1991 and the announcement by Emirates that they will operate their Airbus A380 aircraft between Hong Kong and Dubai signifies an important development in our partnership.
"Hong Kong International Airport is already A380 capable, and we are glad to welcome the Emirates A380 aircraft operating to HKIA on National Day."
KLM plane wing hits Emirates Airbus tail
The wing of a KLM Royal Dutch Airlines plane hit the tail of an Emirates Airbus A340-500 yesterday at Khartoum airport. The incident occurred as passengers were boarding Emirates flight EK734 bound for Dubai. A spokesperson said no one was injured. Passengers were deplaned and accommodated in Khartoum hotels for the night. Emirates despatched a plane from Dubai with a team of engineers to asses the damage and to carry the passengers back.
