Over the last few years, Emirates had particularly focused on improving its First Class and Business products. In First Class, the airline has consolidated its reputation with suites and, in particular, the option of taking a shower during the flight, a single service in air transport to date.
The airline has just revealed at the annual meeting of the IATA that it was going to equip its future aircraft Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 new generation seat Premium Economy. The new class is due to be fitted on these aircraft from 2020.
According to the Chairman of Emirates Tim ClarkThe product will fill a gap between the luxury Business Class and Economy Class. The company plans to install 56 Economy Premium seats on its Airbus A380s at the front of the cabin on the lower deck. On Boeing 777s, the Economy Premium cabin should include between 26 and 28 seats. At the same time, it will be modernising the cabins on its other aircraft.
The Dubai-based carrier has noticed that competitors equipped with Premium Economy are beginning to take market share away from it. According to Tim Clarke, the loss of passengers is particularly noticeable on routes to the United States.Australia as well as certain lines to theAsia. The arrival of new ultra-long-haul aircraft could also weaken the position of the Dubai hub for the company.
The future Economy Premium will feature a seat that Tim Clark describes as a "sleeperette with 96 cm between each row, i.e. 15 cm more than in traditional economy class. The airline will offer a improved catering service as well as private toilets for this class of service.
Emirates' main competitor, Qatar Airwayscontinues to reject the idea of an Eco Premium class. 2019 an improved and "revolutionary" economy class, according to its CEO, Akbar Al Baker.
