Emirates' inaugural retrofitted Boeing 777 is set to commence operations today, August 7, marking its entry into service four days earlier than anticipated. Passengers aboard flight EK83 to Geneva this afternoon will be among the first to experience the aircraft's newly revamped business class seating and premium economy sections.
The transformation of the Emirates Boeing 777 took 37 days to complete, involving a comprehensive overhaul from dismantling the existing cabins to reassembling them with a fresh design. The refurbishment process began in early July, with the aim of introducing a new premium economy cabin featuring 24 seats. These seats, upholstered in cream leather and complemented by wood paneling throughout the cabin, provide increased comfort with a 38-inch pitch, 19.5-inch wide seats that recline 8 inches, and include six-way adjustable headrests.
"Our latest Business Class cabin provides customers with a sense of exclusivity and privacy, enhanced by our top-tier suite of onboard products," stated Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline. "The introduction of our highly regarded Premium Economy cabin, recognized as one of the best in the industry, adds a touch of modern elegance to the flying experience, meticulously designed for greater comfort," Clark added.
The new business class cabin on the Emirates 777 is designed to be both welcoming and private, with enhancements that reflect the light and airy aesthetics of Emirates' A380 experience. It includes 38 seats arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, each 20.7-inch wide seat converting into a spacious flat bed up to 78.6 inches long. Additional features such as a padded headrest, personal mini-bar, dining or working table, multiple charging outlets, and a 23-inch HD screen for in-flight entertainment ensure a luxurious travel experience.
The economy class cabin, on the other hand, offers 256 seats in a soothing palette of soft greys and blues. Each seat is ergonomically designed with full leather headrests featuring adjustable side panels for optimal comfort. Emirates' distinctive ghaf tree motif is prominently displayed throughout the cabin.
Emirates plans to refurbish an additional 80 Boeing 777 aircraft, investing over $3 billion to enhance the in-flight experience. The upgraded Boeing 777s will soon serve routes to Tokyo Haneda and Brussels, with more destinations to be announced.
The refurbishment of the Boeing 777 was meticulously planned, designed, and executed by a team of 175 engineers and technicians at Emirates Engineering in Dubai. This project has significantly impacted the local aviation ecosystem, involving over 10 major partners who have employed hundreds of skilled workers to support various aspects of the refurbishment program.
