Emirates A380 premium economy review
It was slow to the premium economy game, but with a sleek design, luxurious details and plenty of room, this airline has set a new standard for the cabin class.
In March, Emirates commenced its once daily A380 flight from Sydney to Christchurch, with New Zealand becoming the first country in which the airline exclusively operates its four-class A380s. The airline was relatively late to the premium economy party, but in November last year, as part of its $2bn retrofit program, began adding a fourth class to its ultra long-range Airbus A380s. Since launching in Australia, more than 40,000 Australian passengers have chosen to fly the airline’s newest class.
This 7.40am takeoff involves an early start for me, with a 5.20am arrival, but it means there are no queues, plus a strong coffee helps to ease the pain. The flight is delayed, however, by 50 minutes and I regret missing out on extra snooze time.
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EK412
Sydney to Christchurch, NZ departing 7.50am, arriving 12.55pm
Airbus A380 (four class)
33A (window), Premium Economy
3 hours 5 minutes. Delayed by 50 minutes, departing at 8.30am and landing at 1.40pm (NZ time)
From a design point-of-view, the aircraft’s business and first-class cabins win hands-down for function, privacy and perks. But with its quilted cream leather seats, polished woodgrain finishes, generous windows and roomy 2-4-2 configuration, the premium economy cabin is stylish, sexy and the best I’ve experienced. I reserve seat 33A, a window seat at the front of the cabin, and am pleased with my choice. However, the padded calf rest won’t retract for takeoff, so I move to seat 33B until we’re at cruising altitude. Aside from this, the double layered electric window shades and recliner mechanism work seamlessly.
With 50cm width, a 20cm recline and 100cm seat pitch (more for those seated behind the bulkhead), the 56 premium economy seats would put some competitor’s business class offerings to shame. I’m provided with a pillow and warm blanket, but no amenities kit for this short jaunt. The closest bathrooms are at the front of the cabin, up three steps, meaning only able-bodied passengers can access them (there are additional toilets between premium economy and economy). Amber, mandarin and sandalwood toiletries by The White Company are supplied.
Premium economy passengers can check in 35kg of luggage and have a 10kg carry-on allowance.
I live in Australia’s brunch capital, Bondi Beach, so have high standards when it comes to midmorning meals. Having enjoyed a chilled glass of orange juice upon takeoff, the menu is a choice of spinach and parmesan frittata or scrambled eggs. I choose the former, and it’s delicious, served with a tasty corned beef hash, half a roasted plum tomato and sauteed mushrooms. It’s accompanied by a bowl of Greek yoghurt with blueberry compote, cut fruit and a croissant. I generally avoid pastries at this altitude because they tend to be hard and dry or flaccid, but the small croissant is warm, flaky, and when paired with Pepe Saya cultured butter and Beerenberg raspberry jam, a pleasant end to the meal. Robert Welch metal cutlery, Royal Doulton crockery, glassware and linen serviette add to the experience.
My 13.3-inch screen is ultra-sensitive and responsive. In this seat behind the bulkhead, it is attached to the wall, and while it’s a bit of a stretch to reach, it’s less fiddly than those typically stowed in armrests. I connect my own headphones using Bluetooth without fuss; wi-fi is also simple to connect. Emirates ICE entertainment system has about 6500 channels, and screens live sport and news, plus new release movies and TV shows in multiple languages. After catching up on work I don’t have time for a movie so watch an episode of Michael Bruce’s The Mastery of Sleep.
Given only about 30 per cent of the cabin is occupied, I expect service to be attentive, and it is. Staff are polite and chatty.
Complimentary lounge access isn’t offered for premium economy flyers, but passengers can purchase it for $US155 ($240). If you’re in transit for a long period, Sydney Airport’s Emirates lounge is comfortable. The decor is due for a refresh, but with shower facilities, complimentary wi-fi and a premium food and beverage offering, it’s worth considering if you have an extended time in transit.
Emirates offers a daily service from Sydney to Christchurch, with a one-way premium economy ticket priced from about $885. For an extra $345 you can upgrade to business class, while an economy seat on the same flight costs about $389.
You’d be forgiven for mistaking this premium economy cabin for business.
It’s luxe, roomy and a fine example of how the category has evolved since its inception more than 30 years ago. For passengers travelling from Dubai through to Christchurch via Sydney, premium economy is a smart choice. If you’re just crossing the pond, it might be hard to justify the price.