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  • Emirates SkyCargo Boosts Freight Services in East and Southeast Asia Amid Rising Demand

    Emirates SkyCargo Boosts Freight Services in East and Southeast Asia Amid Rising Demand

    Emirates SkyCargo, the air cargo carrier, has unveiled a strategic expansion plan for its freight services throughout East and Southeast Asia. The move is aimed at enhancing the cargo flight frequencies and destinations to meet the increasing demand. Businesses and manufacturers in East and Southeast Asia are seeking comprehensive connections to rapidly and securely transport their goods to high-demand markets in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.

    Facilitating International Trade

    In the FY 25/26, Emirates SkyCargo transported over 439,000 tonnes of cargo via its freighter and passenger flights from 12 markets in East and Southeast Asia. This reflects a 5% increase in cargo tonnage compared to FY24/25, illustrating the thriving demand from businesses and exporters to transport goods across the globe.

    Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President at Emirates SkyCargo, highlighted the importance of East and Southeast Asia as global manufacturing epicentres. They contribute significantly to the production of high-tech goods, export of perishables, and are a significant origin for global e-commerce flows. He added that by increasing the number of freighter flights and expanding their freighter services, they provide rapid connectivity to ensure swift and safe cargo transportation to customers worldwide.

    Expansion of Freighter Flights

    Emirates SkyCargo plans to double its freighter capacity to Narita Airport in Tokyo, increasing from one to two weekly freighter flights. This expansion will cater to Japan’s robust manufacturing industry, spanning diverse sectors like automotive, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.

    The carrier is also escalating its flights to Hong Kong to 37 weekly freighter flights, offering maximum flexibility and choice to customers in this export-led economic corridor. Moreover, Emirates SkyCargo has broadened its reach into Central China with three weekly flights from Zhengzhou, linking the industrial hub of Henan province to Dubai and other destinations.

    The carrier has also resumed its freighter flights from Singapore, with a weekly flight connecting to Dubai via Mumbai. This forms a vital trade lane across Asia. Furthermore, Emirates SkyCargo plans to double its footprint in Taiwan, enhancing its service from one weekly to twice-weekly freighters to Taipei, to meet the increasing demand for high-tech electronic cargo movement.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the main aim of Emirates SkyCargo’s expansion in East and Southeast Asia?
    The primary objective is to increase the freighter flight frequencies and destinations to meet the surging demand for rapid and secure transportation of goods to high-demand markets.

    How is Emirates SkyCargo responding to the demand in Japan’s manufacturing industry?
    The company plans to double its freighter capacity to Narita Airport in Tokyo, thereby catering to diverse sectors in Japan’s robust manufacturing industry.

    What new development has taken place regarding Emirates SkyCargo’s operation in Taiwan?
    Emirates SkyCargo intends to double its footprint in Taiwan, increasing its service from one weekly to twice-weekly freighters to Taipei, to meet the rising demand for high-tech electronic cargo movement.

  • Emirates SkyCargo Expands Global Network with Weekly Freighter Service to Almaty, Central Asias Growing Commercial Hub

    Emirates SkyCargo Expands Global Network with Weekly Freighter Service to Almaty, Central Asias Growing Commercial Hub

    Emirates SkyCargo, the freight arm of the prominent Emirates airline, recently announced the commencement of weekly freighter flights to Almaty International Airport, Kazakhstan, starting from 16 June 2026. In what marks the company’s first foray into Central Asia, the Dubai-based flights are set to establish a robust trade channel, tying the region to the Emirates SkyCargo global network.

    Strengthening Trade Corridors

    As the major city of Kazakhstan, Almaty is a fast-developing commercial and logistical center, serving as an economic and trading nexus in Central Asia. By offering weekly freights every Tuesday, Emirates SkyCargo aims to supply over 100 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity. This will facilitate the smooth transportation of key commodities including electronics, perishables, machinery, and other consumer items between Dubai and Almaty.

    Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, noted that the decision to offer weekly freighter services to Almaty was in line with the company’s role as a global trade facilitator. He expressed optimism that the new service would provide businesses in Almaty and the surrounding region with opportunities to expand their international operations. Furthermore, it would offer the company’s global customers quick and convenient access to a strategic marketplace. Abbas also stated that the Almaty expansion supports the company’s long-term growth strategy and the D33 Dubai Economic Agenda objectives by increasing foreign trade and solidifying Dubai’s status as a global logistics hub.

    Expansion of Freighter Fleet and Network

    In response to a surge in global demand, Emirates SkyCargo has strategically expanded its freighter fleet and worldwide network. Since March 2026, the airline has taken delivery of four new Boeing 777 freighters, with six more due for delivery later this year. This will bring the total Emirates freighter fleet to 21 aircraft by December 2026. Emirates SkyCargo offers its global customers scalable and flexible cargo capacity solutions. In addition to dedicated freighter flights, the carrier also provides high-frequency bellyhold cargo capacity on Emirates’ passenger aircraft fleet, operating to destinations across six continents.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of Emirates SkyCargo’s new service to Almaty?
    The new service will open up a new channel of trade, linking Central Asia, particularly Kazakhstan, to Emirates SkyCargo’s global network. It offers businesses an opportunity to expand their operations and provides global customers with a strategic marketplace.

    How does this expansion fit into Emirates SkyCargo’s broader strategy?
    The expansion aligns with the company’s long-term growth strategy and the D33 Dubai Economic Agenda objectives. It supports the company’s role as a global trade facilitator and strengthens Dubai’s standing as a global logistics hub.

    What are Emirates SkyCargo’s plans for their freighter fleet?
    With the delivery of four new Boeing 777 freighters in 2026 and six more expected later in the year, Emirates SkyCargo plans to expand its freighter fleet to 21 aircraft by the end of 2026.

  • Emirates SkyCargo Expands into Belgium, Adds Liege to Global Freighter Network Amid Rising Cargo Demand

    Emirates SkyCargo Expands into Belgium, Adds Liege to Global Freighter Network Amid Rising Cargo Demand

    Emirates SkyCargo, renowned for being the freight division of the largest international airline worldwide, has recently announced that Liege, Belgium (LGG) is the newest addition to its freighter network. A considerable enlargement of their network is planned throughout the next year, with Liege being the inaugural freighter destination for 2026.

    Strategic Location

    Liege Airport is strategically located within the Amsterdam-Paris-Frankfurt production ‘golden triangle’. Its prime location, combined with unmatched road connectivity, makes it one of the rapidly expanding cargo hubs globally. In 2025, the airport saw a 14% increase in cargo volumes. Over the past years, Emirates SkyCargo has utilized Liege Airport for sporadic freighters, transporting specialized items such as freshly cut flowers, e-commerce packages, and specific charters for horses headed for global competitions. With the continuing demand, the airline will now deploy five weekly freighters, enhancing cargo capacity by 500 tonnes each week to facilitate quick, reliable, and efficient movement of goods.

    Expanded Connections

    Among the five weekly freighters, three will provide connections between Liege, Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, and Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai. These connections will ensure the safe transportation of crucial, temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products through a seamless and efficient cool chain. The remaining two freighters will commence in Hong Kong and transport e-commerce shipments to and via Liege.

    Khawla Abdulla, Vice President of Cargo Commercial for Europe, Emirates SkyCargo, highlights that establishing Liege as a permanent fixture in their freighter network is a strategic decision that enhances their European footprint and offers more connectivity for their global customers. She estimates considerable growth with the deployment of the five weekly freighters, considering the successful transportation of over 15,000 tonnes of cargo from Belgium in 2025. The high-quality infrastructure, freighter-first operations, and well-connected logistics at Liege Airport further support their aim to provide high-level service to Belgium and its neighboring countries.

    Torsten Wefers, Vice President Sales and Marketing, Liege Airport, expressed his honor at Emirates Sky Cargo’s decision to include Liege Airport in their global freighter network. He views this development as a testament to Liege Airport’s rising importance in the European air cargo industry and further strengthens its position as the largest European freighter hub.

    Continued Expansion

    Europe remains a vital and bustling region for Emirates SkyCargo, with 38 freighters and 538 passenger flights serving it weekly. The airline is planning further expansion, recently announcing the commencement of passenger operations to Helsinki, Finland, in October 2026. With a tentative delivery of up to 10 new Boeing 777Fs by December 2026, along with the continued delivery of passenger aircraft, Emirates SkyCargo is poised for growth and service to more destinations with its top-tier product and service.

    Questions & Answers

    What percentage increase in cargo volumes did Liege Airport see in 2025?
    The airport saw a 14% increase in cargo volumes in 2025.

    How many weekly freighters will Emirates SkyCargo deploy to Liege?
    Emirates SkyCargo plans to deploy five weekly freighters to Liege.

    What is the significance of adding Liege to Emirates SkyCargo’s freighter network?
    This strategic addition enhances the company’s European footprint, providing more connectivity for their global customers, and facilitating the efficient and reliable transportation of various goods.

  • First 24/7 Gold ATM Sparkles in Dubai: Emirates Gold Revolutionizes Bullion Trade

    First 24/7 Gold ATM Sparkles in Dubai: Emirates Gold Revolutionizes Bullion Trade

    Emirates Gold, a leading bullion retailer, has made history by unveiling the first-ever gold Automated Teller Machine (ATM) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This pioneering system gives customers the ability to withdraw and trade physical gold around the clock.

    Gold Trading at Your Fingertips

    Located within the towering architecture of Almas Tower in Dubai, this gold ATM is the inaugural installation of what is projected to be a network of up to 40 such machines, due to be set up within the current and coming year.

    The ATM gives users access to more than 70 diverse designs of gold and silver bars in smaller denominations, presenting them with a wide variety of options for collection, investment, or gifting purposes. The process is simple and efficient – users scan to make the payment, select their desired products at live spot prices and are able to receive their physical bullion in an instant.

    Future Prospects and Features

    In addition to the current offering, there are plans to incorporate additional features in the near future. These include options for online order collection as well as the conversion of cryptocurrency.

    Surge in UAE Gold Demand

    In recent years, the UAE has seen a significant influx in gold demand. In 2024 alone, gold demand reached an impressive 66 tonnes. This substantial demand is largely driven by tourist purchases, accounting for a substantial 30% of the total, and local residents seeking to diversify their portfolios beyond traditional real estate and equities.

    The sale of smaller bars, ranging from 1g to 100g in weight, has also seen a significant surge, constituting 40% of the retail market, a marked increase from the 25% in 2020.

    The Rise of Gold Recycle ATMs

    On a global scale, the popularity of gold recycling ATMs has also been on the rise. For instance, in May, a gold recycling ATM in China’s Shanghai attracted large crowds, particularly among older residents eager to cash in their long-held jewelry as global gold prices continue to climb.

    Questions & Answers

    What is a gold ATM?
    A gold ATM is an automated machine that allows customers to withdraw and trade physical gold around the clock.

    What future features are expected to be added to the gold ATMs?
    In the near future, the gold ATMs will incorporate features for online order collection and the conversion of cryptocurrency.

    What factors have led to the surge in UAE gold demand?
    The surge in UAE gold demand is largely attributable to tourist purchases and the growing interest of local residents to diversify their portfolios beyond traditional real estate and equities.

  • Emirates NBD To Acquire Majority Stake In Rbl Bank In Unprecedented $3 Billion Investment

    Emirates NBD To Acquire Majority Stake In Rbl Bank In Unprecedented $3 Billion Investment

    Dubai-based banking group, Emirates NBD, has revealed that it will acquire a majority share in an Indian bank. This move represents the most significant foreign investment in India’s financial sector to date.

    Emirates NBD has confirmed an arrangement to purchase a 60 percent stake in RBL Bank, based in Mumbai. The deal, worth approximately $3 billion, will be carried out through a preferential issue of shares. This acquisition will set a new record for foreign direct investment in India’s financial services industry.

    Emirates NBD has expressed that the acquisition demonstrates its confidence in the Indian economy and emphasizes the strategic significance of India within the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).

    “This strategic partnership marries RBL Bank’s burgeoning domestic franchise with Emirates NBD’s regional reach and financial expertise, providing a unique platform for growth and innovation”, says Shayne Nelson, group CEO of ENBD. He further added that a more substantial presence in India via a well-established business such as RBL Bank will complement ENBD’s services to customers operating across the MENATSA region.

    Questions & Answers

    What percentage stake is Emirates NBD acquiring in RBL Bank?
    Emirates NBD is acquiring a 60 percent stake in RBL Bank.

    What is the approximate worth of the deal between Emirates NBD and RBL Bank?
    The deal is approximately worth $3 billion.

    How does the acquisition of RBL Bank benefit Emirates NBD?
    The acquisition not only allows Emirates NBD to increase its presence in India but also complements its services to customers across the MENATSA region. It also provides a unique platform for growth and innovation by combining RBL Bank’s domestic reach with Emirates NBD’s regional reach and financial expertise.

  • Emirates Unveils Exclusive Luxury Lounge Experience for Discerning Travelers

    Emirates Unveils Exclusive Luxury Lounge Experience for Discerning Travelers

    Dubai’s state-owned Emirates Airline has rolled out a new gem for its affluent travelers with the launch of the Emirates First Lounge in Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB). Since mid-July, this luxurious haven has been welcoming well-heeled passengers, showcasing Emirates’ determination to maintain its edge amid rising competition in the Gulf region.

    The whispers of First Class’ demise during the pandemic seem to have been greatly exaggerated. Contrary to predictions, this lucrative segment is experiencing a resurgence—especially in the prosperous Gulf area, where Emirates stands at the forefront of this revival. The Emirates First Lounge promises its top-tier fliers, as well as Platinum members of its Skywards frequent flyer program, an exceptional airport experience that begins well before takeoff.

    A Luxurious Departure Experience

    With an upgraded check-in area featuring elegant private seating and an exclusive check-in process, the Emirates First Lounge sets a new standard for luxury travel. This is complemented by the airline’s 43 exclusive lounges worldwide, designed for those traveling on premium tickets. Rolex clocks adorn the walls, ensuring that affluent passengers can keep time—though, given that DXB operates as a “silent airport,” they may find themselves enjoying the lull rather than rushing for their gates.

    Charting a Unique Course

    While other airlines may be trending away from First Class, Emirates is carving its own path. Aviation analysts at Cirium report a dramatic reduction in global First-Class seats, dropping to 12.6 million in 2024—a staggering 40% decrease from 21.05 million in 2019. Despite this, overall airline capacity across all classes has risen slightly from 5.7 billion to 5.9 billion seats.

    “Our customers can now enjoy a comfortable ride to the airport with our chauffeur service, check in quickly in the exclusive Emirates First area, relax in a premium lounge before their flight, and then experience our award-winning in-flight service,” shared Adel Al Redha, Deputy President & Chief Operating Officer of Emirates. He also announced a new daily flight to Zurich starting February 1, 2026, employing the Airbus A380 superjumbo to replace the Boeing 777 currently in use.

    Facing New Competition

    Marking a timely investment in luxury, Emirates is now bracing for competition from the upstart Riyadh Air, set to launch in 2025 as Saudi Arabia’s new state airline. Equipped with petrodollars and a mission to cater to an upscale clientele, Riyadh Air has already placed substantial orders for Boeing 787 Dreamliners, transforming the air travel landscape. Its CEO, Tony Douglas, formerly of Etihad Airways, is clearly signaling that Riyadh aims to compete aggressively in the premium sector.

    Alongside these developments, the Maldivian airline BeOnd has also taken flight in 2023, enhancing travel connections between Zurich and the Gulf through charming stopovers, ensuring that competition in the Middle Eastern skies remains vibrant and relentless. A game of high stakes is unfolding, and it’s clear that the first-class cabin remains a coveted and competitive space.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of the Emirates First Lounge at Dubai International Airport?
    The Emirates First Lounge enhances the travel experience for premium customers, offering exclusive check-in, luxurious amenities, and a tranquil atmosphere, reflecting Emirates’ commitment to maintaining its excellence amid growing competition.

    How does the current landscape of First Class travel compare to pre-pandemic levels?
    The global number of First-Class seats has significantly decreased by 40% since 2019, yet Emirates is bucking this trend, bolstering its services and further investing in luxury travel as others scale back.

    What competition is Emirates facing in the luxury travel market?
    Emirates is now competing with the newly announced Riyadh Air, which plans to launch in 2025 and aims to attract high-end travelers with upscale offerings, as well as the Maldivian airline BeOnd, which facilitates luxury connections in the region.

  • Emirates and Sun Group Join Forces to Enhance Vietnam Tourism

    Emirates and Sun Group Join Forces to Enhance Vietnam Tourism

    Emirates and Sun Group Forge Partnership to Elevate Vietnam’s Tourism

    Key Agreement Unveiled at Arabian Travel Market in Dubai

    In a significant move to boost Vietnam’s profile as a top travel destination, Emirates Airline and Sun Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) held in Dubai. This alliance aims to enhance marketing efforts and improve tourism offerings across Emirates’ extensive network.

    Collaborative Marketing Efforts to Promote Vietnam

    The agreement, inked by Orhan Abbas, Emirates’ Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations for the Far East, and Nguyen Vu Quynh Anh, Deputy CEO of Sun Group, will initiate joint marketing campaigns designed to place Vietnam front and center for international travelers. The collaboration includes organizing familiarization trips for media and travel agents from key markets, alongside incentives for tour operators to elevate awareness of Vietnam’s diverse tourism experiences.

    “We’re thrilled to expand our Southeast Asia operations by introducing new weekly flights to Da Nang starting in June, establishing it as our third Vietnamese gateway,” stated Abbas. “This partnership will allow us to showcase Vietnam’s vibrant culture, rich heritage, and stunning landscapes to a wider audience.”

    Positive Impact on Vietnam’s Tourism Sector

    Vietnam’s tourism is poised for a robust boost, with Anh expressing confidence in the collaboration’s potential: “Emirates’ new route to Da Nang will create a significant impact on the city and the broader Vietnamese tourism landscape.”

    Adding to this sentiment, Anh remarked that Emirates will serve as an “ambassador” for Vietnam’s tourist attractions, highlighting iconic sites such as Da Nang’s Golden Bridge and Phu Quoc’s renowned resorts. She emphasized how the airline’s global reach and media prowess will raise Vietnam’s profile, promoting unique destinations developed by Sun Group.

    Tailored Experiences for Emirates Passengers

    In addition to enhancing connectivity, the partnership aims to deliver bespoke experiences for Emirates travelers. Sun Group plans to offer exclusive access to its distinguished leisure attractions, ensuring an enriched journey from sky to ground. “This is just the beginning of a long-term collaboration that aims to add value for travelers and showcase Vietnam as a leading destination in Asia,” Anh added.

    Emirates’ flights will provide passengers with both luxury and comfort, with the airline scheduled to introduce four weekly flights to Da Nang utilizing its state-of-the-art Boeing 777-300ER, which features spacious accommodations across both business and economy classes.

    Strengthening Vietnam’s Global Tourism Standing

    Operating 21 weekly flights to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Emirates is strategically positioned to support Vietnam’s growing tourism sector. The airline’s modern fleet and innovative partnerships highlight its commitment to bolstering not just its own brand, but the overall vibrancy of Vietnam’s tourism economy.

    As Vietnam aims to reclaim its position as an attractive destination for international tourists, this partnership with Emirates signifies a pivotal step forward. By combining marketing might and consumer appeal, the collaboration promises to set the stage for transformative growth in the retail and tourism sectors.

    Stay tuned for further updates on this groundbreaking alliance and its impact on consumer trends in the travel industry.

  • Emirates launches Emirates Courier Express, promising to treat packages like passengers

    Emirates launches Emirates Courier Express, promising to treat packages like passengers

    Backed by almost four decades’ experience in keeping goods and people moving all over the world, Emirates has launched Emirates Courier Express, an end-to-end delivery solution that is set to redefine the express delivery experience.

    To ensure Emirates Courier Express addressed industry-wide challenges, Emirates worked with various global customers to pilot and finesse the product, with the goal to make it as fast, reliable and flexible as possible, before launching to market. Over the last year, Emirates Courier Express transported several thousands of packages from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, South Africa and the UK. The average delivery time is less than 48 hours. Now, Emirates Courier Express is open for business, for businesses.

    Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates SkyCargo said, “Emirates Courier Express is an evolution in how we move goods across the globe, at speed and at scale. Building on our world-class and well-established infrastructure, and reimagining traditional logistics processes where necessary, this innovative solution does not just meet the Emirates Gold Standard of reliability and excellence but sets a new benchmark for what’s possible. This is only the beginning of our vision to continuously innovate and lead the charge in the express delivery sector.”

    Traditionally, cross-border delivery is managed via a global hub-and-spoke model, with a package making multiple stops before arriving at its end destination. Emirates Courier Express has broken this mould. Just like passengers, packages will travel from origin to destination directly, leveraging the breadth of Emirates’ vast global network and near-unparalleled flight frequencies. This approach significantly reduces time in transit, reduces package handling and offers Emirates Courier Express customers’ a competitive edge in getting their goods to end users. Direct connectivity is matched with different service levels, ranging from next day urgent delivery to a two-day Premium service, along with a pipeline of innovative new products.

    At launch, Emirates Courier Express will be active and available in seven markets, however the potential network growth is unlimited: wherever Emirates flies, Emirates Courier Express can deliver. Expansion to additional markets is already in the works.

    Harnessing the fleet of the world’s largest international airline, Emirates Courier Express has access to over 250 all widebody passenger and freighter aircraft to move packages worldwide. Complemented by a trusted, reliable and integrated cross border network of partners to manage the customs clearance and first and last mile transportation, the solution delivers door-to-door. This integration into the airline’s existing infrastructure allows Emirates Courier Express to handle volume fluctuations from seasonal spikes while maintaining cost stability, ultimately empowering customers to plan and budget with confidence.

    This seamless integration also enables Emirates Courier Express to provide bespoke and tailored solutions, whether transporting fashion and mobile phones or the most critical medical equipment. A team of dedicated specialists provide niche segment solutions, facilitated by the airline’s extensive freight and logistics infrastructure, including cool chain capacity, allowing the transportation of specialist or sensitive products from launch.

    Prioritising ease of business, Emirates Courier Express’ is entirely digital, with a purpose-built tech platform integrating directly into customer software and supports additional bespoke shipping solutions. Advanced tracking systems, real-time updates, and seamless integration, ensures complete efficiency, reliability, quality, and transparency from collection to delivery across the world.

    Dennis Lister, Senior Vice President of Product and Innovation, Emirates SkyCargo said, “Emirates Courier Express is the result of challenging the status quo. Along with the industry, we watched the increasing volumes of cross border shipping and challenged ourselves to find a better way to transport these goods faster and more efficiently. The new product launch reflects our ongoing commitment to push the boundaries to introduce innovations which drive real impact and ensure our customers always have access to the fastest, most reliable and cost-effective solutions available.”

  • Emirates Group announces senior appointments

    Emirates Group announces senior appointments

    His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates Group Chairman and Chief Executive, announced senior appointments to support the organisation’s growth and strengthen its leadership bench.

    This latest list of promotions and senior appointments includes 7 UAE nationals, many of whom have grown their careers at the Emirates Group in different roles and continue to play key roles in the organisation’s success.

    HH Sheikh Ahmed said, “These appointments reflect the expanded scale, breadth, and ambition of our business. I’m heartened that we have been able to fill these roles with internal talent, including UAE nationals. The Emirates Group will continue to invest in being an employer of choice for the best talent in the industry, to deliver world-leading products and services, and reflect Dubai’s vision to be number one in everything we do.”

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  • Airlines sells in-flight blankets and pyjamas for ‘first-class’ experience

    Airlines sells in-flight blankets and pyjamas for ‘first-class’ experience

    As aviation geeks, many of us have a tendency to want to take some aspects of the flying experience home. For example, this is something United had a huge issue with when they introduced their new Polaris experience, as they found a lot of people were removing the blankets and pillows from the plane, given how comfortable they are.

    United then started selling some of the Polaris amenities online, and I know it has been popular with many. For example, I really love the Polaris duvet, and think it makes a great gift for any aviation geek (and it’s not horribly priced for a duvet either).

    It looks like Emirates is following in United’s footsteps, as Emirates is now selling some of their first-class amenities through their online store.

    The Emirates online store in general has some awesome merchandise for anyone who likes Emirates branded great, but the addition of some first class items is cool as well. Here are the first-class items you can expect to see online:

    Bowers & Wilkins PX Headphones

    The Bowers & Wilkins PX headphones are made to suit every environment you’re in. With 22 hours of battery life, and 3 noise cancellation modes – these headphones have you covered whether you’re in the office, city streets or any flight. Available in two colors with an exclusive Emirates travel case – grab a pair quickly before your next adventure!

    Available in all Emirates Official Stores and www.emirates.store, these must-have headphones retail at AED 1,799.

    Hydra-active Sleepwear (First Class Pyjamas)

    Relax in the world’s first moisturizing sleepwear range to ever be developed for an airline, and drift off like you’re up at 40,000 feet in hydra-active sleepwear pyjamas. Designed to prevent skin dehydration, you’ll feel rested and refreshed every morning. The fabric is crafted with the use of natural ingredients – Shea Buter and Argan Oil – which are released with every motion, keeping your skin moisturized and protected.  The patented Microcapsule Technology locks in the natural benefits, allowing you to wash the pyjamas and use them again them again.

    Catering to female and male sizes – the pyjamas come in four sizes and in a jersey travel pack. The dark grey men’s pyjamas come with wide leg pant and ribbed collar, while the female’s pyjamas come in a light grey tapered pant and reverse darker color collar.

    Available in all Emirates Official Stores and www.emirates.store, the First Class pyjamas retail at AED 200 per piece.

    First Class Blanket

    As the winter and the festive season approach, grab yourself a warm blanket for those special chilly nights spent at home with family and friends. When open, the cream-colored, furry blanket has armholes and pockets to keep hands and feet warm.  This essential item can also be converted into a travel pillow, providing ultimate comfort and support for the neck.

    Available in all Emirates Official Stores and www.emirates.store, the First Class blankets retail at AED 225.

    The Bowers & Wilkins PX headphones are good, but at the price I think there are better ones out there.

    I find Emirates’ new pajamas to not be particularly comfortable.

    And I also don’t think their blankets are great, and actually prefer the United Polaris duvet, if you are in the market for an airline blanket for home.

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  • Singapore Airlines picks crucial fight against Emirates in India

    Singapore Airlines picks crucial fight against Emirates in India

    Singapore Airlines Ltd just picked a fight with Emirates in a grab for India’s international travelers, and a slice of one the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.

    Singapore Air’s unprofitable Indian venture, Vistara, launched its first overseas service between New Delhi and Singapore late on Tuesday. It’s the start of an uphill battle against Middle East airline giants, led by Emirates and Etihad Airways, that dominate India’s offshore routes.

    For Singapore Air, ambushed all over South-east Asia by budget airlines, the prize is clear. The number of passengers in India will more than triple to 520 million by 2037, the International Air Transport Association says. And of the 63 million people that flew to and from the country last year, two-thirds were carried by foreign airlines.

    Vistara’s maiden offshore flight is due to touch down at Changi airport early on Wednesday.

    Vistara, 49 percent owned by Singapore Air and 51 percent by Indian conglomerate Tata Group, started out in January 2015. India doesn’t allow foreign airlines to fly between local airports unless they partner with a local company to start a domestic airline.

    The carrier operates 30 Airbus SE and Boeing Co jets and has a local market share of 5 percent, the smallest among six major players. It also plans to fly to Dubai and Bangkok. According to the CAPA Centre for Aviation, Vistara could break even in the year ending March 2020.

    Vistara is a key element of Singapore Airlines’ multi-hub strategy, and the launch of international operations offers additional opportunities to it, a spokesman for the South-east Asian carrier said. He declined to comment on competition. A representative for Vistara referred queries to Singapore Airlines, while Emirates declined to comment.

    Still, airlines from the Middle East have history on their side. They’ve traditionally flown westbound Indians to Dubai and Abu Dhabi on ultra-cheap fares, before putting them on a flight to Europe or North America. Emirates, often dubbed the “unofficial national carrier of India”, controlled almost 15 percent of the market to and from India last year, regulatory data compiled by Bloomberg showed.

    The fares offered by low-cost airlines in India’s notoriously price-sensitive market are another challenge for Singapore Air. A Vistara flight to Singapore from New Delhi on Aug 28 costs 17,379 rupees (S$338), according to online travel agent Makemytrip.com. In comparison, AirAsia Bhd was offering a flight at less than half that price, at 7,745 rupees, albeit with a stop in Kuala Lumpur.

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  • Emirates offers summer promotion tickets

    Emirates offers summer promotion tickets

    Emirates offers summer promotion fares for customers from Vietnam who book tickets from now until April 22 and travel from April 15 until November 30, 2019.

    Economy Class fares start from VNĐ17,189,000 (US$747) to Dubai, VNĐ19,999,000 ($870) to Paris, VNĐ21,809,000 ($948) to London, VNĐ23,819,000 ($1,035) to Amsterdam, VND25,189,000 ($1,095) to Madrid, and VNĐ27,179,000 ($1,181) to Boston.

    The Early Bird promotion also offers very attractive Business Class fares, only from VNĐ66,079,000 ($2,873). Business Class passengers traveling on the Boeing 777 can enjoy unprecedented levels of comfort with wider and more ergonomic seats that recline into a lie-flat position for a restful sleep.

    In addition, Emirates passengers from Vietnam who purchase Economy Flex or Flex Plus fares can enjoy 30kg and 35kg baggage allowance, respectively. When booking Flex or Flex Plus fares, Skywards members earn more Skywards and Tier Miles, allowing them to earn the next reward or reach the next tier faster.

    Emirates currently operates daily non-stop flights between HCM City and Dubai, and daily non-stop flights between Hà Nội and Dubai. Through its Dubai hub, Emirates offers passengers travelling from Việt Nam convenient connections to an extensive global network in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, the US and South Asia.

     

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  • Emirates to fill pilot gap with exodus from Etihad, Norwegian airlines

    Emirates to fill pilot gap with exodus from Etihad, Norwegian airlines

    Emirates, the world’s biggest long-haul airline, may feed its appetite for new pilots with recruits from ailing neighbor Etihad Airways and cash-strapped discounter Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA, according to an internal memo from the Gulf carrier. Hong Kong Airlines has also contacted Dubai-based Emirates about opportunities to temporarily transfer some cockpit crew, according to the document. Pilots at the unit of beleaguered HNA Group are Airbus SE-rated, meaning they could be trained to fly the Mideast company’s A380 superjumbos.

    “The current situation with several airlines in financial difficulty globally leaves Emirates in a good position to be sourcing and selecting good-quality pilots,” the memo says.

    It said the airline recruited 52 pilots last month, the highest number since August 2016, and that the number of viable applications it’s receiving “is higher than the number of candidates that can be invited.”

    Emirates declined to comment on the communication, which was dated Jan. 29 and appeared to be a meeting report. A spokeswoman said there are sufficient pilots for current operations, though the airline will “continue to welcome qualified candidates.”

    Norwegian Air said it’s not uncommon for members of any company’s workforce to seek opportunities elsewhere. Hong Kong Airlines couldn’t be reached during the Chinese New Year holiday, while Abu Dhabi-based Etihad didn’t respond to requests for comment.

    Hiring Challenge

    Emirates faces an annual hiring challenge to meet the needs of its expanding global network. President Tim Clark said last April that there would be a shortfall of 100 to 150 flight crew over 2018’s busy summer travel season.

    According to the memo, 499 crew have been deemed eligible to join from this coming April through the end of 2019.

    Applications from Norwegian Air and Etihad have been spurred by redundancies at the airlines, according to the Emirates memo.

    Norwegian, heavily indebted after one of the fastest growth spurts in aviation history, resorted to a 3 billion kroner ($354 million) rights issue last week after British Airways parent IAG SA walked away from a takeover bid.

    The Scandinavian carrier is also closing six bases and cutting routes to stem losses, proposing that pilots transfer to other locations.

    Etihad last June offered captains and first officers a two-year secondment, or temporary transfer, to Emirates. In January, it revealed plans to cut 50 pilot posts as it cancels jet orders and shrinks operations to stem losses.

    The Emirates memo said Hong Kong Air has identified a 10 percent surplus in pilot numbers. The carrier, whose debt-laden owner HNA is offloading $20 billion in assets, is being sued by a Macau-based lender for failing to pay $20 million in principal and interest, according to a court filing last month.

     

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