Emirates Sees Premium Travel Uplift

Emirates Sees Premium Travel Uplift

Emirates’ New Zealand manager Chris Lethbridge says that a combination of unmatched premium travel features and attractive pricing is paying off for the airline locally.

“We are seeing encouraging signs of a return to premium classes of travel following the recession,” he said today. “I think we can put this down to a combination of factors.

“We are able to offer a number of distinctive innovations in our premium classes and business travellers and leisure customers seem to be appreciating these points of difference. In addition, we offer exceptionally good value for money, with our one-way transTasman pricing being more than $400 lower than other carriers with frequency.”

Emirates operates four flights a day from New Zealand (three from Auckland, one from Christchurch), with a total of 202 business class seats.

“We now have lie-flat seat beds in business class on three out of our four routes (the fourth will come in from January 1) and we have up to 1200 channels of inflight entertainment. The journey starts with online check-in and bag drop if desired by the customer, chauffeur drive for first class and longhaul business class passengers, and fast-track customs clearance. We have our own dedicated lounges in Auckland and 23 other airports, with more on the way, and the provision of these exclusive facilities for first and business class and Skywards Gold members cannot be under-rated.

“Our on-board cuisine – and Emirates has a full-service offering in all classes – is also a cut above.”

Chris Lethbridge said that, in addition, the attraction of the Emirates A380 superjumbo was a significant factor on the Auckland-Sydney-Dubai route. The aircraft, which can carry 14 first class and 76 business class passengers, is unique in having onboard showers for first class customers as well as private suites.

“The onboard bar lounge for business and first is one of the most popular elements for premium class travellers, allowing good opportunities for relaxation and networking. All in all, the A380 product is top shelf and great value.”

ENDS

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