Emirates receives its first A350-900 from Airbus
As the carrier targets 400 global cities
Emirates has taken delivery of its first A350-900 aircraft from Airbus in Toulouse, France, with 64 more on order. The carrier unveiled the new aircraft in Dubai on November 27, 2024. The A350 is the first new widebody aircraft type to join Emirates’ fleet since 2008. It will complement Emirates’ existing widebody fleet, which includes the Boeing 777 and the Airbus A380.
The airline has ordered 65 A350-900s to support Dubai’s Economic Agenda, which aims to add 400 cities to Dubai’s foreign trade map over the next decade. The A350 fleet is due to operate from the Dubai World Central (DWC) mega hub.
The airline plans to operate the A350 on regional and ultra-long-haul routes, with its first commercial flight scheduled to Edinburgh on January 3, 2025. Additional destinations, including Bahrain, Muscat, and Colombo, are also on the horizon, and new routes up to 15 hours from Dubai will be announced in 2025.
The Emirates A350 has three cabin classes and can accommodate 312 passengers: 32 lie-flat seats in Business Class, 21 Premium Economy seats, and 259 in Economy Class. The aircraft features several upgrades designed to enhance passenger comfort.
The new Economy Class seats are fitted with a fresh, sophisticated light blue fabric and luxurious bronze-coloured armrests. Additionally, in early 2025, the airline will introduce an innovative six-way adjustable headrest in Economy Class, improving neck support and eliminating the need for neck pillows.
Business Class on the A350 will offer 32 leather lounge seats inspired by the Mercedes S-Class, providing a private and luxurious experience. New features like wireless charging, in-seat lighting controls, and a 4K entertainment system will enhance the flight experience. Emirates’ Premium Economy service will also be available on all 65 A350s, offering reclining leather seats, a large TV screen, and a selection of premium meals.
Unique design
Airbus has designed the Emirates A350 with a sleek, spacious interior, wider aisles, and higher ceilings. Improved seat configurations, easier aisle access, and more privacy will benefit all passengers, especially in Business and Premium Economy.
In terms of technology, the A350 is equipped with the latest innovations, including electric window blinds, a new inflight entertainment system with 4K screens, and enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity. Emirates also plans to introduce seamless online shopping on the aircraft in 2025, allowing passengers to browse and purchase duty-free items from their seats.
With the new A350, Emirates has become the first airline in the Middle East to feature Airbus’s new HBCplus satcom connectivity solution, offering passengers high-speed global connectivity.
The A350 is the world’s most efficient widebody aircraft and the long-range leader in the 300-410 seater category. Its clean sheet design includes state-of-the-art technologies, aerodynamics, lightweight materials and latest-generation engines that deliver a 25% advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and CO₂ emissions. The A350’s Airspace cabin is the quietest of any twin-aisle in the sky, featuring a 50% reduction in noise footprint compared to the previous generation aircraft.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 can operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
As Emirates continues to evolve, the A350 will play a crucial role in the airline’s plans for the future. It will offer passengers enhanced sustainability, efficiency, and comfort on short—and long-haul flights. With its blend of advanced technology, luxurious interiors, and superior customer service, the Emirates A350 is set to redefine air travel for years to come.
Philippe Mhun, Executive Vice President of Programmes and Services at Airbus, noted: “We are proud to deepen our four-decade partnership with Emirates. The A350 will become a key member of Emirates’ fleet, supporting the airline’s growth and sustainability goals.”
Hero image: Emirates’ first A350-900 aircraft pictured at Dubai International Airport on November 27, 2024. Credit: Emirates
