Emirates has started direct daily flights between Dubai and Auckland for the first time since 2020, to cater to a seasonal increase in travel demand. With this route, Emirates has become the only carrier to fly the jumbo double-decker A380 to New Zealand.
Emirates is offering all four class levels along with premium economy for the first time. The double-deckers will have a seating capacity for 484 passengers, adding up to 6,776 seats to Auckland weekly.
Chris Lethbridge, Emirates Regional Manager NZ, said: “The amenities onboard the A380 are just well above so many other aircraft. We have standout features like the onboard bar in business class, the shower/spa in first class, the 5000 channels of entertainment, and live television. Then there is just the whole feeling of spaciousness and how incredibly quiet the airplane is.”
The Auckland Airport expects the passenger numbers to hit at least 70% of the pre-pandemic mark this summer.
The airline hopes that this increased capacity will be a welcome change for tourists as well as agents as international demand is recovering at a rapid pace.