Hit by potential Boeing 777X delays, Emirates is reportedly planning to launch Premium Economy on their A380 fleet instead.
According to Arabian Business, Premium Economy will be launched on the Airbus A380 fleet in December 2020; however this is yet to be confirmed by the airline.
During a media event in Dubai Emirates President, Tim Clark, revealed thoughts about the possible Premium Economy, due to the delays with the Boeing 777X program.
Emirates was supposed to receive their first Boeing 777X by June 2020, where they would unveil the new cabin product. Unfortunately for travellers and Emirates, this is no longer an option.
Due to engine issues and the ongoing Boeing 737 MAX crisis, the launch of 777X flight tests has been delayed by six months. You can read about this here:
Although we know Emirates has plans for Premium Economy whether it’s set for the Airbus A380 or Boeing 777X, it is still unclear as to what this product might look like.
Australian Executive Traveler notes that during the Aircraft Interiors Expo earlier this year, HAECO revealed their new Eclipse Cabin; however they didn’t disclose the launch customer, who is said to begin flying the seats in 2020.
Although Airbus has elected to terminate the A380 program in 2021, Emirates remains firm on the fact that the aircraft will be a part of their fleet until around 2035.
With the A380 being such a large aircraft, it is likely Emirates will take a while to roll out Premium Economy on their desired aircraft.
Premium Economy will be highly beneficial for the airline, especially with the likes of the Airbus A350, A330neo and Boeing 777X set to enter their fleet in the future.
As the market changes, Emirates will be ready to take on the passengers looking for a cheaper premium product on different stage lengths.
Sam Chui wrote an article earlier covering the initial details of Emirates’ Premium Economy cabin, which was reported by Australian Executive Traveler. You can read about this here:
Once more details emerge about the Premium Economy, we’ll be sure to cover on this blog!
Are you looking forward to seeing Emirates’ Premium Economy cabin?