Emirates A380 Begins A New Era With Retrofit

Emirates A380 Begins A New Era With Retrofit Written by Mark Smith. Published on 10th January, 2023. Category: Travel News

Exciting news coming out of Emirates this week with the first Emirates A380 coming back into service with completely refurbished cabins.

The full cabin refresh includes Emirates’ latest cabin interiors in First and Business Class with lighter colour palettes, and the installation of the popular Premium Economy cabin.

Deployed on the Dubai-London Heathrow service, operating as EK003, it is the first of 67 A308s planned for refurbishment over the next 2 years as part of the US$2 billion project that began in 2022.

Take a look at how they achieved it here:

What to Expect from the Refitted Emirates A380s

With the largest fleet of Airbus A380s in the world, the refitting of the aging aircraft is highly anticipated by industry experts and passengers alike. In conjunction with the refitting of 53 Boeing 777s, it will see the refurbishment of 728 First Class Suites, over 5,000 Business Class Seats, and the implementation of nearly 4,000 Premium Economy Seats.

It will also include updates to the carpets, stairs, First Class Shower Spa, & interior cabin panels, all refreshed with new tones and design motifs including the iconic ghaf trees which are native to the UAE.

Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline said:

“Customers will notice the difference the moment they step onboard – the spacious A380 will look and feel even more impressive and comfortable. With our latest interiors and products, this newly refurbished aircraft elevates our inflight experience in all classes of travel, and enables us to offer more Premium Economy seats to meet customer demand.”

“I’m particularly proud that this refurbishment work was designed, conducted, and completed in-house at our facilities in Dubai, to the highest standards of quality and safety. It reflects the world-class aviation capabilities and infrastructure that exists within Emirates, and here in the UAE.” 

The New Emirates A380 Premium Economy

With 56 new Premium Economy Seats located on the main deck of the refitted Emirates A380, the airline now offers an upgraded experience. With a higher level of comfort and relaxation, passengers enjoy more space and a premium dining experience surrounded by a sophisticated cabin interior.

With wider, cream leather seats with raised cushioned leg rests, adjustable headrests, and a deeper recline, passengers in Emirates Premium Economy are sure to travel in style and comfort. Polished woodgrain dining tables that fold neatly into the seat are complemented by a side table to rest a glass of your favourite drink and delicious menus showcasing a choice of dishes served on Royal Doulton china.

Upgraded inflight entertainment systems, wine lists, and the privileged position at the front of the aircraft making boarding and disembarking quicker and easier all make for a fantastic experience on your next flight… and with a refitted aircraft being rolled out every 8 days until the program is completed in 2025, it won’t be long until you can see it for yourself.