Emirates retrofits A380 aircraft

Emirates has completed the first retrofit of a two-class Airbus A380 aircraft under its multi-billion dollar fleet refurbishment programme, introducing Premium Economy seating for the first time on the upper deck of the aircraft.

 

The refurbished aircraft has entered service operating EK39 and EK40 between Dubai and Birmingham following a full cabin reconfiguration carried out by Emirates Engineering in Dubai.

 

The retrofit transforms the aircraft into a three-class configuration featuring 76 Business Class seats, 56 Premium Economy seats and 437 Economy seats. Premium Economy seating has been installed in a 2-3-2 layout on the upper deck and includes leather seats, adjustable headrests, charging ports and 13.3-inch entertainment screens. The project also involved structural and cabin modifications including the removal of 120 Economy seats to accommodate the Premium Economy cabin and additional Business Class seating.

 

Emirates plans to retrofit all 15 two-class A380 aircraft in its fleet by the end of 2026. Future retrofits are expected to take around 30 days following operational learnings from the first aircraft conversion.

 

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Sir Tim Clark, President of, Emirates Airline, said: “The Emirates retrofit programme revolves around the central premise that we will offer our customers a truly elevated experience every time they choose to travel with us.”

 

The Dubai carrier has so far completed retrofit work on 95 aircraft, including 42 Airbus A380s and 53 Boeing 777s, as part of a wider refurbishment programme covering 219 aircraft across its fleet. Retrofitted Boeing 777 aircraft are already operating across 40 destinations, with the programme expanded in 2024 following increased demand for refreshed cabin products and positive passenger feedback.

 

The milestone comes as the airline continues wider investment across onboard products and passenger services. Recently, Emirates Group reported profit before tax of AED24.4 billion (US$6.6 billion) for the financial year ended 31 March 2026, with the carrier posting the aviation industry’s highest reported airline profit at AED22.8 billion (US$6.2 billion).

 

In recent weeks, the airline also introduced complimentary high-speed Starlink WiFi on Airbus A380 aircraft across all cabin classes, alongside flexible rebooking options allowing itinerary changes within 72 hours of departure following disruption-related schedule changes.

 

For more information, visit www.emirates.com