Emirates EK415
Route: Sydney to Dubai
Aircraft: Airbus A380-800
Class: Business Class
Seat: 8J
Duration: 14 hours and 30 minutes
Emirates aim to impress and they do at every stage of the experience, in every class of travel. A 15-hour-long flight from Sydney to Dubai is made all the easier in business class on Emirates’ double decker A380. Efficiency and high attention to detail start at check-in and are reflected in the attentive service throughout and one of the best entertainment systems in the air. No tedium or boredom on this flight!
The cabin, its elegantly polished wood fittings gleaming, features 76 flat bed seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, making this one of the largest business class offerings in the air. Window seats offer more privacy while centre seats are ideal for two people travelling together, with an optional privacy screen.
The seats are 18.5 inches wide with a pitch of 48/70-79, and recline into a lie flat bed, for a comfortable space to relax and sleep in. A mattress topper is added for extra plushness and you can settle in comfortably with a duvet and pillow, with an optional extra blanket. The subtle, coloured mood lighting provides a calming atmosphere.
Each seat unit contains a personal mini bar, well stocked with snacks and beverages, as well as extra compartments for storage of personal items you wish to keep within easy reach. A large and stylish toiletry bag contains all the necessary amenity kit items, with carefully thought out additions such as Gillette shaving foam and razors, and an aftershave and moisturiser pack from luxury brand Bvlgari. Women’s amenity kits offer a more feminine range.
The ICE (information, communications, entertainment) inflight entertainment system, accessed via a 17-inch touch-screen, provides up to 1,800 channels of new-release movies, classic films, TV shows, documentaries, music, and games. It also ffers flight progress tracking, destination information and tips on connecting flights and baggage claim, with multiple languages and audio options.
There is a standard remote control, or a tablet-like controller through which you can also control your seat. In-seat power supply, a lamp, and side table provide extra space for work, and inflight Wi-Fi is available all throughout the aircraft.
The dining and beverage menus offer plenty of options for breakfast, lunch and snacks in between. No “plane food” here – I enjoyed a three-course, restaurant-quality meal, impeccably served on white linen, crisp napkins and polished cutlery. If you’re in the mood for something a little extra, head to the well-appointed cocktail lounge bar and help yourself to the snacks and order your favourite drop from the impressive range of top shelf wines, spirits and beers. This gem offers a great space for a quiet nightcap or socialising with fellow passengers.
emirates.com
