Will Use Its First Superjumbo On DXB-JFK Run

Air travelers will be able to experience Emirates' first-ever Airbus A380 on August 1, when the airline launches its first A380 commercial service from Dubai to New York JFK. The 14-hour non-stop flight will also be the first-ever commercial A380 service to the United States.

"The United States represent a key focus area in Emirates' route development plans, and we are delighted to be the first airline to launch commercial A380 services to the continent," said Emirates CEO Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum. "We are confident that Emirates' customers traveling to and from North America will welcome the A380's additional space and capacity, as well as our luxurious onboard amenities which will provide a very high quality travel experience previously associated only with private jets."

Emirates recently announced it will start daily non-stop service from Los Angeles to Dubai on September 1, and from San Francisco to Dubai on October 26. In addition to the twice-daily service from JFK, the airline has daily non-stop service from Houston to Dubai with its current Boeing 777 fleet.

Powered by Engine Alliance GP7200 engines, Emirates' A380s can fly up to 7,456 miles on a full load and offer better fuel economy per passenger mile than most hybrid passenger cars. The Engine Alliance is a joint venture of General Electric and Pratt & Whitney. The A380 is also quieter, both inside and outside of the cabin, which means more comfort for passengers.

On August 1-3, Emirates will operate its brand-new A380 aircraft between Dubai and New York JFK on a commercial basis. These will be additional flights to its existing twice-a-day non-stop service. From August 8 onwards, Emirates will operate its A380 three times a week on its New York-Dubai route (EK201/EK202) on Fridays, Sundays and Wednesdays.

Emirates expects delivery of five A380s in its current financial year, all featuring its ultra long-haul configuration of 489 seats: 14 in First Class, 76 in Business and 399 in Economy; with 13 tons of bellyhold capacity for cargo. After New York, these aircraft are slated to operate on Emirates' routes from Dubai to London Heathrow and Sydney-Auckland.

The airline is the largest single customer for the A380, with 58 planes on order. As ANN reported last week, Emirates will receive its first superjumbo July 28.

FMI: www.emirates.com/usa, www.airbus.com