Emirates to Extend Retrofit Plans for Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 Aircraft

Emirates is set to revolutionize the travel experience for passengers with its ambitious plans to retrofit more of its long-haul jets with state-of-the-art premium economy seats. The Dubai-based carrier announced last week that it will be giving a cabin face-lift to an additional 43 Airbus A380 jets and 28 Boeing 777s, on top of the 67 A380s and 53 777s already slated for upgrades.

Emirates President Tim Clark emphasized the airline’s commitment to enhancing the customer experience with top-notch products across all cabins. The retrofits will see a total of 191 jets revamped, marking a significant investment in modernizing the fleet.

The carrier’s retrofit plans include introducing a premium economy cabin, a first for Gulf carriers. The A380 retrofits have already seen success, with Emirates winning two TPG Awards for best first class and best premium economy products. The premium economy seats offer spaciousness and comfort, with features like calf rests and generous reclines.

Emirates aims to expand its premium economy offering to 42 cities globally by February 2025, catering to a wider range of travelers. The airline’s fleet growth doesn’t stop at retrofits, with orders for 300-plus new jets, including A350s, 777s, and Dreamliners.

Despite the massive spending commitments, Emirates reported record profits for the 2023-24 year, showcasing its financial stability amidst fleet enhancements. With these upgrades, more passengers, including U.S. travelers, can look forward to experiencing Emirates’ revamped cabins in the near future, offering a luxurious and comfortable journey for all.