Emirates’ flying palaces to return to Gatwick: Carrier will deploy its luxurious A380s for flights from the London hub to Dubai in December in response to a surge in demand
- The Emirates A380 will replace the scheduled B777, upping capacity by 50%
- By the end of December, the airline will offer 84 weekly flights to the UK
- Emirates A380 first-class passengers have private suites and access to a shower
Emirates has announced that it will deploy its iconic A380 when it resumes operations to London Gatwick Airport from December 10, upgrading planned capacity in response to an upsurge in passenger demand.
The Emirates A380 will replace the scheduled B777, resulting in an increase in capacity of almost 50 per cent on the London Gatwick – Dubai route.
Flight EK015 will depart Dubai International (DXB) at 7.40am and arrive in London Gatwick (LGW) at 1140, while flight EK016 will depart London Gatwick at 1.35pm and arrive in Dubai at 12.40am the following day (local time).
Emirates has announced that it will deploy its iconic A380 when it resumes operations to London Gatwick Airport from December 10. Pictured is one of the amazing Emirates A380 first-class suites
The Emirates A380 will replace the scheduled B777, resulting in an increase in capacity of almost 50 per cent on the London Gatwick – Dubai route
The news will undoubtedly be welcomed by travellers across all cabins, with Emirates’ A380 experience consistently lauded.
Its first-class passengers relax in swanky private suites and have access to a shower. And, along with business class customers, they can enjoy an onboard bar.
The addition of London Gatwick Airport to flight schedules in December will restore Emirates’ UK operations to six gateways, alongside the six-times daily A380 London Heathrow service; double-daily A380 flights to Manchester, ten-weekly service to Birmingham, daily service to Glasgow, and four-weekly service to Newcastle.
A380 first-class passengers relax in swanky private suites (above) and have access to a shower
Emirates A380 first class and business-class passengers can enjoy an onboard bar
The airline added: ‘By the end of December, the airline will offer 84 weekly flights to the UK, making it easier for UK customers to access Emirates’ growing global network of over 120 destinations – close to 90 per cent of Emirates’ pre-pandemic network, and for international travellers to visit the UK.’
Richard Jewsbury, Divisional Vice President UK, commented: ‘Upgrading the Gatwick route to our incredible A380 will help us meet ever-growing demand for international travel from the British public.
‘Whether it’s winter sun trips to Dubai or passengers travelling further afield to reconnect with family and friends, future bookings continue to gather pace.
‘London Gatwick Airport has long been a valued partner for Emirates and we look forward to welcoming passengers back onboard Emirates’ flagship aircraft soon.’
The incredible onboard Emirates A380 shower suite
Singapore Airlines has confirmed that from November 19, its A380s would be deployed once more on one of the airline’s daily non-stop return services between London and Singapore.
British Airways will soon be reinstating Airbus A380 services, beginning with short-haul flights using the superjumbo between London, Madrid and Frankfurt.
The A380 European services will begin on November 8, before long-haul superjumbo services recommence in December to Dubai, Los Angeles and Miami.
BA from November 8 is using A380s for flights from Heathrow to Madrid and Frankfurt to re-familiarise crew and pilots with the aircraft.
Dubai is hosting Expo 2020 until March 2022.
It is ‘packed with experiences to suit all ages and interests, including a rich line-up of themed weeks, entertainment, and edutainment’.
EMIRATES CABIN CREW SHARE INSIDER TIPS AND TRICKS FOR FLYING AFTER LOCKDOWN
1. Invest in a comfortable face covering
Emirates’ aircraft are fitted with Hepa cabin air filters that clear 99.97 per cent of viruses. However, you might like to invest in a high-quality, comfortable face covering given you’ll be required to wear this whilst travelling. A mask with at least two layers of fabric is recommended to help protect yourself and others, while some also come with changeable filters. Quality fabrics that feel good on your skin with high breathability – such as pure cotton, merino wool or microfiber – will help filter particles, and also ensure comfort.
2. Combat nerves with your carry-on
If it’s been a long time since your last international flight, one of the easiest ways to feel calmer is knowing that you have prepared for all eventualities. Carry your passport and other printed travel documents/vaccine certificates in a secure pouch and only remove these when needed, replacing straight away. Also be sure to carry hand cream, lip balm, an eye mask (if you are hoping to sleep), headphones, a toothbrush if travelling overnight and a spare shirt in case of any unexpected mishaps.
3. Make your journey smoother with tech
Emirates cabin crew have revealed post-lockdown flying tips, which include wearing merino wool and focussing on the joy of being reunited with family if you’re a nervous flyer
Every country has different entry requirements so be sure to check these in advance and allow more time at the airport than you would have done pre-pandemic. Emirates was the first airline to roll out the IATA app across its entire network (info here), and many destinations allow entry paperwork to be stored and presented via apps or QR codes. Bear in mind that some countries require passenger located forms to be completed up to 48 hours in advance and QR codes presented at check-in.
4. Media magic
Completed Netflix over lockdown? Check if your airline has a playlist function allowing you to browse in-flight entertainment and queue content in advance of your journey. Focus on how enjoyable the journey can be by browsing through the very latest and greatest of content, along with your old favourites. Emirates has over 4,500 channels on its ‘ice’ system, and you can now watch shows from US streaming service, HBO Max. Enjoy must-sees like Friends: The Reunion for the first time on a flight, as well as the Emmy award-winning Mare of Easttown, A Black Lady Sketch Show and more. Alternatively, enjoy a few calming moments with in-flight meditation services.
5. Combat jet lag
Try to avoid excess caffeine and alcohol in both the days leading up to your journey and whilst on board as this can interfere with resetting your circadian rhythms. It’s a great idea to set your watch to the time of your destination, and most airlines will dim the lights / manage the cabin ambiance in a way that helps the body transition. When you’re flying long-haul it’s vital to drink plenty of water, as the air circulation can dry out your skin, altitude makes you crave salty snacks (leading to dehydration) – and dehydration exacerbates feelings of jetlag!
6. Focus on the why
Still feeling unsure? Sometimes it helps to focus on where you’re going and why. Think of the faces of your family members that you so look forward to hugging. Imagine the feeling of the sun on your skin. Save a destination guide to read on board and spend some time planning all the exciting things you’ll do, places you’ll visit, food you will eat and cultural experiences that will make a better, happier and more relaxed you.
For further information, refer to the Emirates Covid 19 Safety Hub, which contains helpful videos and an explanation of the policies and procedure the airline has in place to ensure the safety of passengers.
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