The best-in-class service of Emirates is well known, but what about its other perks?
In the world of commercial aviation, Emirates is an undisputed giant – with over 250 aircraft covering 157 destinations (including 12 US airports) – but only first class can provide the ultimate Emirates experience.
The attentive service, comfortable cabins, and premium entertainment on Emirates’ top ticket seats set the standard in first class aviation for many frequent flyers. On most routes, the Dubai-based airline offers first class seating on Boeing 777s and A380s (except on the Boeing 777-200LR, which offers only economy and business class), with slightly different on-flight experiences available.
It is unfortunate that the aircraft used for your flight will depend solely on availability and the route you have selected; unlike private flights, commercial flights don’t offer you the luxury of choosing your plane. No matter which aircraft you are aboard, you can all but guarantee an impeccable standard of service and comfort with Emirates. Here are some of the best perks.
Airport Lounges
In addition to the in-flight experience, Emirates first class passengers benefit from its worldwide lounges that set the standard from the minute they arrive at the airport. There is a dedicated first class lounge within Emirates’ business class lounge at its Dubai base, which is so large that it is essentially a terminal in itself.
You can find luxury toiletries, towels and hairdryers in the lounge, boutique duty-free shops, a quiet area to relax between nighttime flights, a cigar bar, and a business center where you can make important pre-flight calls. While waiting for their next flight, first class passengers receive a complimentary spa treatment.
Each Emirates lounge offers a buffet as well as a dedicated dining room with table service and an a la carte menu for a sit-down meal in true Emirates style. The Le Clos Wine Cellar in Emirates’ lounge provides guests with the finest wines and spirits while they wait for their flights.
Even though Emirates’ Dubai airport lounge is the largest and best equipped, it also offers exclusive lounges at other frequented destinations like New York (JFK), Boston (BOS), and Los Angeles (LAX).
In-flight
Depending on the route you’re traveling on, Emirates’ first class configuration will differ. Some aircraft service specific routes only. The in-flight experience will be the same no matter where you fly.
There are 14 private suites in the first class portion of Emirates’ A380 aircraft. Despite the fact that every first class passenger will have aisle access, not everyone will have the pleasure of a window. On board the Boeing 777, first class is configured 1-1-1 with six suites, so there is once again competition for window seats. Emirates has, however, installed virtual windows that project real-time images of the outside view in order to combat this problem.
A particular benefit of Emirates’ A380 first class is the onboard shower spa – a luxury not available on Boeing’s 777. The shower provides guests with a generous amount of time to use it, so they can arrive refreshed at their destination.
On both aircraft, reclining seats can be converted into beds, slippers, blankets, and pillows are provided along with luxury toiletries. Mercedes worked closely with Emirates to replicate soft leather seats from the Mercedes-Benz S Class for the Boeing 777 first class suites.
There is a temperature and lighting gauge in each first class suite so you can set the mood exactly how you like it.
With its ICE media center, Emirates is renowned for its in-flight entertainment, featuring the latest movie releases, box sets, sports and more. If your suite doors are closed, your personal widescreen becomes a mini private cinema when you travel first class. Guests are provided with Bowers & Wilkins E1 headphones for an enhanced sound experience.
Food and Drink
With a team of world-class chefs and suppliers, Emirates’s culinary team is truly world-class when it comes to in-flight food and drink. Local produce takes center stage in the gourmet offering, which is inspired by the flight destination. During the summer, strawberry pastries might be on the menu when flying from the UK to the UK, while Australian Angus beef might be on the menu when flying to Australia.
As for the drinks service, Emirates first class passengers are served Dom Perignon 2008 as standard – no corners are being cut. On board, you can expect to find a comprehensive selection of fine wines that could rival that of the world’s finest restaurants, as well as a wide selection of cocktails, beers, and premium spirits. Teas, coffees, and soft drinks are also available in abundance.
As and when guests wish, they can order from a wide range of food and beverage options, which can be enjoyed in the privacy of their suite or in the company of other passengers in the exclusive onboard lounge.
Service
On the ground and in the air, Emirates prides itself on its impeccable level of service, but first class is the pinnacle.
First class passengers receive complimentary chauffeur service to and from the airport before their flights depart. First class passengers receive priority boarding directly from the Emirates lounge and designated check-in points when they arrive at the airport, avoiding long lines and crowded spaces that economy passengers experience.
You will be shown around your cabin by the cabin crew once you board the aircraft. Depending on your preference, you can fly socially or privately. If you want to be alone, just close the door to your suite and relax – you can even order food and drink via video call if you wish. Emirates onboard team is known for its friendly yet courteous manner for those who want a more sociable flight experience.
Whether you need a wine recommendation or help setting up your reclining seat into a bed, Emirates’ cabin crew is always available to assist. In order to ensure a comfortable, enjoyable, and of course safe flight, the team undergoes extensive training.
