Over a year ago, Emirates, the world’s leading operator of the iconic double-decker A380 aircraft, initiated the most extensive aircraft retrofit project in the history of aviation. This monumental project encompassed the complete overhaul of 120 wide-body aircraft cabins, involving the replacement of seats, carpets, color palettes, wall panels, wood furnishings, and more. As part of this multi-billion-dollar endeavor, premium economy seats were integrated.
In an exciting development, Emirates is now introducing its premium economy class to the Indian market. On Sunday, two of these refurbished four-class A380 aircraft will depart from Dubai to Mumbai and Bengaluru, marking the debut of the premium economy cabin in India. The flights are scheduled to arrive in the early hours of Monday, departing two hours later for Dubai as Flight EK501 from Mumbai and Flight EK569 from Bengaluru. This expansion brings Mumbai and Bengaluru into a select list of destinations that offer the premium economy experience.
Positioned between economy and business class in terms of pricing, amenities, and comfort, the concept of premium economy class originated in 1991 when Taiwanese airline EVA Air introduced it on their Boeing 747-400 aircraft. Subsequently, Virgin Atlantic and British Airways followed suit, and today, over 60 airlines worldwide provide this elevated travel option. Emirates introduced its premium economy class in August last year, as part of its ambitious 32-month-long retrofit program encompassing 67 A380s and 53 B777s, with four aircraft retrofitted each month.
Emirates’ premium economy cabins aboard the A380 feature 56 opulent cream leather seats located at the forefront of the main deck, arranged in a spacious 2-4-2 configuration. This new class offers generous seat recline, increased legroom, and an enhanced dining experience, along with various luxurious amenities. Passengers can indulge in an array of regional menus, highlighting local flavors, complemented by an extensive selection of beverages tailored to premium economy customers. The inflight entertainment system, featuring over 6,500 channels, has undergone significant enhancements, including larger screens and an extensive collection of movies, TV shows, and albums in various languages.
Emirates’ Vice President for India and Nepal, Mohammad Sarhan, underscores the transformative impact of the airline’s premium economy class on the travel experience for an evolving segment of passengers. He noted the positive response from customers who have embraced the heightened comfort and luxury at a compelling value. With the surging demand in travel across Emirates’ network, premium economy offers passengers the perfect amalgamation of luxury and affordability.
The retrofitted A380 aircraft presents passengers with a captivating fusion of exquisite designs and fresh color palettes, evident throughout the aircraft in the form of captivating carpeting, wall panels, and wood finishes.
