Emirates resumed its daily services from Dubai to Christchurch via Sydney after a three-year hiatus deploying its flagship A380 on the route. The aircraft was greeted by a ceremonial water cannon salute at the Christchurch Airport.
On board the first flight back to Christchurch, Barry Brown, Divisional Vice President Australasia, Emirates, said: “The significance of the occasion was clear on the faces of the other passengers on board, who understood what this service means for Christchurch and connecting it to the world. Not only has Christchurch again become the smallest city on Emirates’ A380 network, but New Zealand is now the first country on our network to exclusively carry our four cabin A380 and our best product yet. The phenomenal customer response from the moment tickets went on sale, both in and out of Christchurch, speak to a city in high demand.”
The special service was greeted by a crowd of spectators at the Christchurch Airport boundary, who watched as the iconic aircraft taxied through a ceremonial water canon salute, before parking in view of trade, media, and VIP guests at the international terminal.
Justin Watson, Chief Executive, Christchurch Airport said: “Resuming the daily service offers South Islanders access from Christchurch Airport to dozens of the world’s most famous cities in the famous Emirates style. After the A380’s inaugural arrival in October 2016, people came to the airport every day to admire and photograph the aircraft. The global pandemic paused the service, but today, we welcome the aircraft back, knowing many excited Cantabrians are here to remind the crew and passengers how warm the South Island welcome is.”
The resumption of this flight also gives a boost to the air cargo sector with Emirates SkyCargo supporting the export of 15 to 18 tonnes of daily goods across the Tasman. The airfreight will also provide much needed airfreight from a broad range of exporters, including Central Otago cherries, prime New Zealand lamb, and premium seafood, as they continue on to destinations around the world.
Interestingly, Christchurch passengers will be able to enjoy Emirates flagship A380 along with the debut of its Premium economy cabin and a range of newly introduced products across all classes.