Paris gets Eiffel of Emirates' A380

DUBAI, U.A.E., 24th June 2009 - An Emirates' A380 super-jumbo is to serve Paris from February 1st, 2010.

The French capital is the latest destination to be added to the growing list of gateways served by Emirates' popular double-decker.

Tim Clark, President, Emirates Airline, said: “This is really great news for us to bring the A380 to Paris and is a result of such encouraging sales in and out of Paris Charles de Gaulle. Our plans to introduce this exceptional aircraft have been accelerated by almost a year which, in the current economic climate, is a major achievement."

The superjumbo will replace the morning service out of Dubai. EK 073 leaves Dubai at 0800hrs and arrives in Paris at 1225hrs.

The Emirates’ A380, much of it built in France, has been the talk of the industry for nearly a year now, since its introduction to the fleet in July 2008. It represents the latest innovation and technology from a company recognised internationally for its in-flight amenities and services.

The First Class cabin features the now famous Onboard Shower Spas – equipped with leather seating and Timeless Spa signature products.

Emirates' A380 ground-breaking in-flight product also features an Onboard Lounge for First and Business class passengers, with a wide range of beverages and canapés, as well as an exclusive space to socialise or simply relax. This is designed to make passengers feel like they are in their own executive club. A further Social Area, incorporating a water feature, is located at the front of First Class.

Passengers will also notice a difference in the Economy Class cabin, most notably the straight walls which give the impression of increased spaciousness and a 32” seat pitch, which is one of the most generous on the market.

A380 passengers enjoy an elaborate menu, created by top international chefs and complemented by the finest beverages. Emirates’ award-winning ‘ice’ (information, communication, entertainment) in-flight entertainment system offers more than 1000 channels of on-demand entertainment, the most extensive programming currently available in the skies.

Each cabin is equipped with an advanced mood lighting system, complete with a starlit sky, which adjusts throughout the flight to reflect the time at the destination and to help combat the effects of jet lag.

Emirates operates a double daily service to Paris, which is currently served by a combination of Boeing 777 aircraft. In addition to the morning flight, EK 075 departs Dubai at 1500hrs and touches down in Paris at 1935hrs. First and Business Class passengers can enjoy the luxurious facilities provided by the airline's dedicated lounges in Paris and Dubai's Terminal 3, one of the finest airport facilities ever built.

Emirates boasts the world's largest order of Airbus A380s with five in its fleet and a further 53 double-deckers to be delivered. They currently serve Toronto, London Heathrow, Bangkok, Sydney and Auckland.

The highly decorated Dubai-based carrier operates services to destinations across six continents in Europe, North America, South America, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian subcontinent and Asia-Pacific.

Picture caption 1 - Paris-bound - The Emirates' A380 is to serve the French capital from February 1st next year.