Emirates to introduce Airbus A380 to Glasgow in April 2019
Emirates has announced plans to introduce the gigantic A380 on routes from Glasgow to Dubai, although on a temporary basis. This will be the first time the double-decker aircraft will have serviced any Scottish airport for commercial flights.
A daily A380 service will replace the twice daily Boeing 777 service from April 16 to May 31, while Dubai International Airport’s southern runway is closed for upgrade works. The single runway operation during this period means airlines are required to reduce and adjust their operating schedules.
Standing over 24 meters high and with a wing span of nearly 80 meters, the A380 will enter operation in April and will operate throughout the summer season until the end of October 2019.
Dubai Airport
Emirates has carried more than four million passengers to 155 destinations since its inaugural Glasgow flight in 2004, and they say the decision to introduce the plane to the city confirms its status as “Scotland’s leading long-haul airline”.
The A380, which has 14 first class private suites, 76 fully flat-bed seats and 399 economy class seats, first visited Glasgow to celebrate Emirates’ 10th anniversary at the airport.
“Scotland is a key part of our success in the UK and we are pleased to be bringing the A380 to Glasgow,” said Richard Jewsbury, divisional vice president UK, Emirates.
Glasgow Airport
Councillor Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council, said, “Having two flights out of Dubai – one of the world’s largest hub airports – arriving in the city everyday greatly increases Glasgow’s global connectivity, and today’s announcement is another positive step in terms of forging greater business links and increasing visitor access from key emerging markets such as China and India.”
“I welcome Emirates’ decision to introduce the very first A380 service in Scotland. This increase in capacity is a huge vote of confidence in Glasgow Airport and in Scotland as a whole,” said Michael Matheson, Transport secretary.
Glasgow Airport managing director Mark Johnston said, “The decision by Emirates to introduce the A380 is not only a huge milestone for Glasgow Airport, it marks what is a first in the Scottish aviation industry.
“We have forged a valued relationship with Emirates since its inaugural flight in April 2004 and the introduction of Scotland’s first-ever scheduled A380 service represents a major vote of confidence in the city.”