Emirates to expand long-haul network with sixth A380
Carrier takes delivery of two Boeing aircraft despite global downturn
Dubai: Forging ahead with the airline's fleet expansion, Emirates has taken delivery of its sixth Airbus A380 aircraft.
The huge aircraft landed in Dubai late last night after travelling from the Jürgen Thomas Delivery Centre in Hamburg, Germany. The aircraft is currently being fitted with the airline's service hallmarks at Emirates' engineering facility in preparation for entry into service.
Taking delivery of the aircraft, Adel Al Redha, Emirates Executive Vice-President of Engineering and Operations, said: "The delivery of our sixth A380 aircraft is testament to Emirates' steadfast resilience amid the global economic crisis. The A380 offers us the ability to support our operational needs and meet passenger demand, an important factor with international load levels looking positive over the next few months.
"We remain resolute in our expansion plans in terms of both fleet and destinations. In the last four weeks alone Emirates has announced plans to start services to Tokyo and Amsterdam in 2010 and has also taken delivery of three new aircraft including two Boeing 777-300ER, in addition to today's Airbus A380."
Serving six distant destinations including Sydney, Auckland, Bangkok, Toronto, Heathrow and (from tomorrow) Seoul, Emirates A380 aircraft provide a greener option for long haul travel with their substantial reduction in noise, emissions and fuel burn.
From December 29, Emirates will also operate an A380 service to Paris, with the carrier's seventh A380 aircraft due for delivery later this month.
Designed to provide customers with the greatest travel comforts on long-range journeys, the Emirates A380 — with 14 first class private suites, 76 business class and 399 economy seats — represents the latest innovation and technology from a company recognised internationally for its inflight amenities and services.
Unique to the Emirates aircraft are its Shower Spas — two fully-equipped bathrooms in the first class cabins with shower facilities.
Emirates A380s also feature an onboard lounge for first and business class passengers, which includes a bar with a wide range of beverages and canapés as well as space to socialise or relax.
