Emirates Takes Delivery of First Airbus A350-900 from Toulouse
The airline has taken delivery of the first of 65 Airbus A350-900s, the first new type to join Emirates in 15 years
Photo: Courtesy of Airbus / Herve Gousse-Master Films
After 15 years without a new aircraft type, Emirates has turned the page on a significant milestone with the delivery of its first Airbus A350-900, marking the beginning of a new era for the Dubai-based airline.
The aircraft, registered as A6-EXA, is the first of 65 A350-900s set to join Emirates’ fleet over the next few years.
Photo: Courtesy of Airbus / Herve Gousse-Master Films
This delivery also represents the first new aircraft type to join Emirates since the debut of its iconic A380 in 2008. The widebody jet was handed over at Airbus’ assembly facility in Toulouse, France, making its ferry flight to Dubai International Airport (DXB), powered by a blend of jet fuel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
“The A350 is a key part of our fleet modernization strategy, offering greater fuel efficiency, operational flexibility, and an enhanced customer experience,” said Tim Clark, Emirates’ President.
Preparing for Service
Upon its arrival in Dubai, the airline says the brand-new plane will undergo final touches at Emirates Engineering before its grand unveiling later this week at a special event.
Following these preparations, the aircraft will enter commercial service in January 2025, with its inaugural destination being Edinburgh (EDI).
Emirates has also announced plans to deploy the A350 on eight other routes spanning Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, including cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Lyon, and Muscat.
The full route network for the aircraft is as follows:
| Route | Service Start Date |
|---|---|
| Dubai – Edinburgh | January 3, 2025 |
| Dubai – Mumbai | 2025 (Exact date TBD) |
| Dubai – Ahmedabad | 2025 (Exact date TBD) |
| Dubai – Kuwait | 2025 (Exact date TBD) |
| Dubai – Bahrain | 2025 (Exact date TBD) |
| Dubai – Colombo | 2025 (Exact date TBD) |
| Dubai – Lyon | 2025 (Exact date TBD) |
| Dubai – Muscat | 2025 (Exact date TBD) |
| Dubai – Bologna | 2025 (Exact date TBD) |
Enhancing Passenger Comfort
According to Emirates, the A350-900 promises a more comfortable and sustainable flying experience. With its advanced aerodynamics, fuel-efficient engines, and modern cabin features, passengers can expect quieter flights and a smoother ride.
Photo: Courtesy of Airbus / Herve Gousse-Master Films
Renowned for its upscale service, Emirates aims to upgrade the passenger experience with features that cater to premium and economy travelers on the new plane. “The introduction of the A350 is not just about modernizing our fleet but also enhancing the travel experience for our customers,” Clark added.
What to Expect Onboard?
The first 10 Airbus A350s will have a three-cabin configuration, featuring Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class seating, as previously noted by the airline.
These aircraft will accommodate a total of 312 passengers, with 32 Business Class seats, 21 Premium Economy seats, and 259 Economy Class seats.
Photo: Boeing 777, Premium Economy. Courtesy of Emirates
However, while the seat count is confirmed, Emirates has yet to reveal the full details of the cabin interiors, leaving some intrigue about what passengers can expect on board.
One notable absence from the A350 is First Class, a surprising decision for an airline that boasts the largest international First Class footprint in the world.
Currently, First Class is available on most of the airline’s fleet, but this new direction suggests a shift in strategy.
With regards to Business Class, Emirates has released a preview via the airline’s seat map, featuring a staggered seat configuration.
Sources familiar with this matter have confirmed to Business Traveler that the plane’s Business Class will be the same one that’s recently been released on the retrofitted Boeing 777-300ERs. However, an official confirmation from the airline is still pending.
Photo: Courtesy of Emirates
The new product is a significant upgrade from the previous Business Class cabin, which had a 2-3-2 seating configuration. It now offers customers all-aisle access. However, aviation experts have criticized the cabin for not including sliding doors and for being too similar to the existing seating product.
Delays and Challenges
While the delivery of the first A350 is a celebratory moment, it comes after several delays. Initially slated for August 2024, the delivery timeline shifted multiple times before this November milestone.
These setbacks echo challenges across the aviation industry, particularly regarding supply chain and production schedules.
Photo: Courtesy of Emirates
Emirates remains confident in its ability to integrate the A350 into its operations seamlessly, with the remaining 64 deliveries expected by early 2028.
As the A350 enters service, Emirates continues to expand its network and commitment to sustainability. The airline’s use of SAF for the delivery flight underscores its focus on reducing environmental impact.
