Emirates Expands Premium Economy Service to Melbourne

Emirates, the world-renowned airline, is set to enhance its offerings between Melbourne and Dubai with the addition of a new Premium Economy service starting from 1 February 2024. This service, featured on flights EK408 and EK409, represents a significant expansion of Emirates' already successful Premium Economy presence in the Australian market.

This move follows the successful introduction of the Premium Economy service from Melbourne in April 2023 on the daily EK406 and EK407 services. The expansion effectively increases the availability of Premium Economy seats to nearly 800 weekly between Melbourne and Dubai, indicating Emirates' strong commitment to this route and cabin class.

Emirates’ Premium Economy is distinguished by its luxurious design and exclusive amenities. The cabin boasts plush cream leather seats with wood veneer accents, adding a touch of sophistication. Passengers in this class enjoy a generous baggage allowance and an exceptional dining experience, served by dedicated cabin crew.

The expansion in Melbourne is part of Emirates’ broader strategy to enhance service quality across key markets. Australia, being a pivotal market for the airline, will now benefit from nearly 3,200 Emirates seats weekly, including two daily services each from Sydney and Melbourne. The inclusion of the new Premium Economy service reaffirms Australia's importance in Emirates' global network, especially with the premium cabins.

The response to the Premium Economy class since its introduction has been overwhelmingly positive. Since the sale of Premium Economy tickets began in Sydney in August 2022 and Melbourne in April 2023, over 90,000 passengers have chosen this new cabin experience, with load factors averaging over 80%. The sustained high demand in Melbourne highlights the growing consumer confidence and travel demand.

Barry Brown, Divisional Vice President Australasia at Emirates, emphasizes Australia's significance in their global network. He notes the success of the Premium Economy cabin in Australia and expresses commitment to offering Australians greater connectivity and more choice in their travel experiences.

The introduction of the additional Premium Economy service is part of Emirates' extensive multi-million dollar retrofit program. This program aims to outfit a total of 126 aircraft, including 67 A380s and 53 Boeing 777s, with Premium Economy cabins. Currently, 22 A380s equipped with Premium Economy cabins are operational across the Emirates network.

The Premium Economy experience on Emirates is marked by quiet luxury. The A380s flying from Melbourne or Sydney feature the Premium Economy cabin at the front of the main deck with a 2-4-2 seat layout. Each 19.5-inch seat is designed for comfort and support, with a significant recline, adjustable headrests, a footrest, and a 13.3-inch screen, one of the largest in its class. The cabin's décor, inspired by Emirates' private jet service, features cream-colored leather and walnut wood finishes.

The dining experience in Premium Economy is a step above, with welcome drinks served in fine glassware, meals made from seasonal ingredients on Royal Doulton china, and an extended beverage list that includes selections from the Business Class wine list.

Emirates' commitment to Australia continues to grow. The additional Premium Economy service to Melbourne is part of a series of expansions in the country. This includes increased flights and services to various Australian cities, affirming Emirates' dedication to providing access and superior service to its Australian customers.