Double delight in Hong Kong as Emirates’ A380 touches down on National Day

EMIRATES Airline helped National Day celebrations get under way as its Airbus A380 flew into Hong Kong for the first time just hours before a dazzling fireworks display lit up the iconic harbour skyline.

With festivities in full swing across the city, the superjumbo landed at Hong Kong International Airport to mark the start of its daily A380 service connecting Hong Kong and Dubai, via Bangkok.

EK384 was welcomed by a water canon salute as Hong Kong became the 11th destination on Emirates’ global network to be served by the most environmentally advanced commercial aircraft in the skies.

Richard Jewsbury, Emirates’ senior vice president, commercial operations, Far East and Australasia, said: “It was tremendous that our Airbus A380 made its maiden flight to Hong Kong on a day of national celebration.

“Hong Kong is a thriving commercial hub and – along with Greater China – is integral to the future growth of the world economy. This economic strength makes it a key market for Emirates and we are delighted to be bolstering our commitment to the region by bringing our flagship aircraft to Hong Kong.

“The 517-seat double-decker will help meet the growing demand for seats on this route, particularly in business and first class, while offering our passengers the chance to enjoy the premium A380 experience.”

Edwin Lau, Emirates’ vice president, Greater China, added: “Having operated on the route for almost two decades, Hong Kong has played an increasingly important role in our global network. In addition to connecting passengers to more than 100 destinations around the world, we disperse a large volume of cargo.

“Each week more than 2,300 tonnes of freight is transported by Emirates across the belly-hold capacity of 14 passenger flights and 19 dedicated freighter services operated by Emirates SkyCargo.”

Emirates’ luxurious A380 products include two onboard shower spas in the first class cabin, featuring signature amenities by the airline’s premium spa brand, Timeless Spa.

Emirates is the largest A380 operator in the world and flies daily from Dubai to Paris, Jeddah, Seoul, Bangkok, Sydney, Auckland, Beijing and Manchester, as well as double daily to London Heathrow and three times a week to Toronto. In addition - from October 31 - the aircraft will make its much-anticipated return to New York with its non-stop service between Dubai and JFK.

Emirates will continue to offer its passengers the option of a non-stop daily service between Hong Kong and Dubai, currently operated by a Boeing 777-300ER.