Emirates raises stakes

INVESTMENT: Emirates Airline has raised the stakes in the fiercely-contested premium traveller segment with the launch of its new generation lie-flat business class seats today.

This investment is a new milestone in a series of recent inflight product enhancements for the award-winning airline, and it is a move expected to win the thumbs-up from more travellers on long-haul flights.

Passengers flying Emirates' new Boeing 777-300ER between Dubai and London Gatwick will be the first to sample this new business class offering. By year's end, another six Emirates jets will be operating with this new business class product.

Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline said: "In the highly competitive segment for premium travellers, Emirates has a clear lead with a superior all-round product.

"Our premium customers enjoy complimentary chauffeur drive service, dedicated lounge facilities at major hub airports worldwide, and unmatched inflight entertainment and service onboard a young and modern fleet.

The new Business Class seats we are introducing on our Boeing fleet, together with our flat-bed 'SkyCruiser' privacy seats in First Class, will strengthen Emirates' appeal to premium travellers seeking that extra luxury and comfort, particularly on long-haul flights."