Emirates, the world’s largest operator of international First Class travel with more than 25,000 weekly seats, has just announced some new upgrades and enhancements to its already amazing First Class experience.
Emirates First Class Service Enhancements
In addition to the many existing amenities you’ll find when flying Emirates First Class such as private suites, fine champagne, and, when traveling on the carrier’s Airbus A380s, a shower in the sky, the Dubai based carrier is now taking service a step further. These changes come days after Emirates quietly restricted First Class award availability when using Skywards miles.
Emirates has long been known for service, especially in First Class, but now the carrier will provide true “white glove” service onboard. Emirates flight attendants will use the gloves during various aspects of the inflight service including the unlimited caviar service which will now come in Emirates engraved bowls designed by Robert Welch.
In addition to the white glove service, Emirates is also rolling out a keepsake menu for passengers that looks more like a magazine which showcases the offerings onboard. According to the airline, the new menu will provide background on the wine and culinary offerings as well as provide paring guidance.
Emirates’ First Class cheeseboard, with its artisan cheeses and chutneys, also gets an upgrade and is presented on a rustic slate, with accompanying bowls and a wooden honey dipper. Based on the press photos, that is one impressive cheeseboard.
While these enhancements may seem minor, I appreciate the fact that Emirates is constantly working to evolve and improve upon its First Class product, which is something I can’t necessarily say for its Business Class.
An Elevated Ground Experience in Dubai
The enhancements in the air are just the tip of the iceberg as Emirates has announced it is refurbishing the First Class check-in area in Terminal 3 at its hub at Dubai International Airport (DXB).
The refurbished space is meant to mimic the exclusivity of the carrier’s First Class lounges. Dedicated, personalized check-in services will be offered in the new space and, based on the rendering, it’s hard to tell that this is even a check-in area. Passengers departing from Dubai and a myriad of other destinations will also receive complimentary chauffeur service to the airport.
Summary
Emirates is making more enhancements to the First Class travel experience, introducing white glove service along with a revamped cheeseboard and upgraded in-flight menus. The carrier is also enhancing the ground experience in Dubai with a redesigned check-in area.
While these are admittedly minor upgrades, Emirates First Class is one of the most aspirational redemptions for points and miles enthusiasts so it is always fun keeping up with the changes, even if I won’t be flying the product anytime soon.
(Images courtesy Emirates)