Emirates has announced an ambitious expansion of its Boeing 777 retrofit program, set to see the aircraft deployed to two further destinations – Zurich and Riyadh.
Starting October 1, 2024, the airline will introduce its newly refurbished Boeing 777s to Zurich and Riyadh, marking a further step in the carrier’s rollout program.
This expansion doesn’t stop there. Emirates is also set to deploy these upgraded aircraft to Geneva and Brussels.
This makes them the pioneering cities in the airline’s vast network to feature refreshed B777 cabins on all flights. This move underscores Emirates’ dedication to providing a consistent, premium experience across its routes.
Emirate’s Rollout Program
The retrofitted Boeing 777s represent a significant investment in passenger comfort, featuring the highly acclaimed Premium Economy product and a newly configured Business Class cabin.
These enhancements are part of a broader strategy to elevate the in-flight experience across all cabin classes.
Let’s break down the rollout plan:
- Zurich will see the introduction of the retrofitted Boeing 777 on flights EK 85 and EK 86 from October 1, 2024.
- Riyadh will welcome the enhanced Boeing 777 on the same date, operating as EK 819 and EK 820. This marks a historic moment as the first debut of Emirates’ Premium Economy in the Middle East/GCC region.
- Geneva takes the lead as the first city in Emirates’ network to offer Premium Economy seats and newly refreshed Business Class cabins on all flights, starting September 22, 2024, with the upgraded B777 serving routes EK 89 and EK 90.
- Brussels follows suit on October 9, 2024, with the second retrofitted B777 operating on EK 181 and EK 182 six times weekly.
This extensive retrofit program is part of Emirates’ larger vision to serve 28 cities with Premium Economy by the end of 2024.
To date, 25 aircraft have already undergone the transformation, with plans to upgrade 17 more by December 2024.
This ambitious project not only demonstrates Emirates’ commitment to innovation but also its responsiveness to evolving passenger preferences.
Boeing 777 Cabin Configuration
The refurbished four-class Boeing 777 boasts an impressive configuration:
- First Class: 6 or 8 luxurious suites
- Business Class: 38 seats arranged in a spacious four-abreast layout
- Premium Economy: 24 seats in a comfortable 2-4-2 configuration
- Economy Class: 256 seats
The new Business Class is a pinnacle of comfort and functionality. Passengers can look forward to spacious seats that transform into 180-degree fully reclined flat beds, offering unparalleled privacy and the luxury of uninterrupted sleep.
Each 20.7-inch-wide soft leather seat provides aisle access, complemented by thoughtful amenities such as a personal mini-bar, a wooden table for dining or working, multiple charging outlets, and intuitive seat controls.
The Premium Economy class is equally impressive, featuring 19.5-inch-wide cream leather seats with a 6-way adjustable headrest.
The 38-inch pitch and 8-inch recline ensure a relaxed journey, supported by a calf and footrest for added comfort. Passengers in this class also benefit from accessible in-seat charging points and a stylish wooden dining and cocktail table.
Dining Experience
Business Class passengers can indulge in gourmet dining experiences served on Royal Doulton fine bone china with exclusive cutlery.
The airline’s renowned wine and champagne selection is coupled with its award-winning in-flight entertainment system. This ensures a journey that’s as enjoyable as it is comfortable.
The Premium Economy experience is further enhanced with an elevated dining service. This includes a welcome drink, fine beverages, and a selection of gourmet dishes served on elegant tableware. It brings together elements of Business Class luxury to this new cabin category.
Emirates now continues to expand its retrofit program across its Boeing 777 and A380 fleet. Passengers will gain access to an unparalleled level of choice and quality across every cabin class.
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