Emirates has announced exciting developments involving its Boeing 777, unveiling formal plans to debut its refurbished aircraft.
The Dubai-based carrier says it’s selected the first of many cities to experience the Boeing 777 with newly configured cabin interiors. Geneva, Tokyo Haneda and Brussels are slated to be the first three locations to welcome the new cabin.
Emirates says its Boeing 777 fleet will offer passengers more room thanks to the 1-2-1 configuration of the next-generation Business Class seats and the addition of Premium Economy.
Furthermore, the Boeing 777 leans on the success enjoyed with the flagship Airbus A380 to ensure the interior sports the best possible customer comfort levels and features modern design details alongside improved finishings.
The Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer of Emirates stated that the four classes offered will also provide greater levels of choice for customers. Now, with four cabin classes, passengers can select a location of the aircraft that they desire for their optimal price point.
Furthermore, the leading executive stated that introducing the refurbished Boeing 777 will enhance its position in the Middle East. Moreover, the company hopes to showcase its commitment to offering the best possible experience across every cabin class and every fleet type.
EK83/84 from Dubai to Geneva will see the first fully upgraded Boeing 777 on 11 August. From 1 September, EK312/313 from Dubai through Tokyo Haneda will also see the latest refurbishment of the Boeing long-haul jet. Lastly, of the initial three locations, Emirates says EK183/184 from Dubai to Brussels in Belgium will welcome the refurbished aircraft on 11 September.
The Major Refurbishment
Work on upgrading the first Boeing 777 commenced on July 1. It is currently undergoing a nose-to-tail cabin interior facelift. The airline states that this overhaul takes two weeks, and after inspection, the aircraft will be ready for renter service.
Ultimately, Emirates’ refurbishment of the Boeing 777 will focus on improving First Class, installing 38 new business class seats, adding 24 seats in Premium Economy, and refining Economy Class.
Emirates has always maintained a high standard for the aircraft it operates. This is also reflected in its view of maintaining a youthful fleet. However, the rapid reconfiguration programme, valued in the billions, has increased in importance.
Emirates is one of many airlines currently impacted by supply chain difficulties and an inability to acquire aircraft on time. Their executives have voiced frustrations and sought compensation. Still, these delays have left the airline scrambling to ensure its fleet remains up to the same standard as competitors while extending the life of older jets to mitigate capacity loss.
81 Boeing 777 jets will be refurbished as part of the investment, alongside an overall plan to refurbish 191 aircraft, including the flagship Airbus A380. Emirates is aware of the colossal resources required, and this is regarded as the largest known retrofit programme in the aviation industry’s history.
Emirates, however, is betting that this will be worth its while in the long run, with customer satisfaction levels rising. Furthermore, as next-gen aircraft arrive, the refurbished aircraft should align with these newer planes entering service.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Daniel Fowkes is a Melbourne-based aviation analyst and journalist with over a decade of industry experience. As founder of Dj’s Aviation, he delivers trusted analysis on aircraft, airline strategy and global aviation trends for djsaviation.net
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