I N T R O D U C T I O N
It is always a fascinating mystery how Emirates manages to be the success story that it is today, and seemingly, I believe this will continue for longer than we think. I know that this topic is a favorite amongst some of us and also a favorite worst amongst an opposing bunch of others, but one can’t deny the measures this airline is willing to take to continue growing. And like fuel to fire, Emirates needs to grow in order to succeed. I on the other hand, am a moth to this burning flame, and my fascination for this airline is almost as overwhelming as the airline’s rather exorbitant strategy.

But what about Etihad? Many of you may ask. Sure, I still love them to bits as they still are my backyard carrier. But Etihad is more like a rebellious little girl that still needs her mother’s guidance. Emirates on the other hand, cannot even be remotely correlated to any human, let alone a female like Etihad. Perhaps a plant, if Emirates is to be that giant beanstalk that Jack decides to climb.

We all know that Emirates is not the leader in terms of software offering in-flight. Well, they aren’t bad at all –they are actually good on many levels- but the likes of many others such as Cathay, Etihad, Singapore, Malaysia, and SriLankan are claimed to offer something a trillion times more consistent.

An airline like Emirates –one that has defied almost all the generic theories that have taught the aviation that we currently know- has an understanding that others cannot seem to grasp. When Open Skies and deregulation damaged a countless number of our legacy predecessors’ business models, they have also formed the backbone of Emirates’ need for growth. When airlines and airports together found efficiencies in de-peaking away from a hub-and-spoke system, Emirates continues to grow three, and build even more traffic banks at its Dubai mega-hub. Today, in its own breed, Emirates has revolutionized the way an airline should be managed by adopting a low-cost carrier approach to capacity expansion, the need for sheer volume, and yield management; all of which form some of the pillars that support its purely classic legacy structure.

Many still ponder whether this airline is fully subsidized or not, and perhaps many like to believe that it is. But don’t you think this is a little out of style by now? Dubai is flat-broke and cannot source a dime to pay its own debt, yet Emirates continues to be its one and only crown jewel (and a profitable one at that too). But still, many are adamant to assume that the airline’s annual reports are favorably audited for a desired show –quite silly if you ask me.

And so, to me this is what makes Emirates, well, Emirates! Like they say at the airline’s corporate headquarters, “we don’t have to be number one to be the best.” On board, Emirates most certainly is not number one, nor is it the best. But at home, at work, on TV, the Internet, and the radio, they most certainly chime a rather fascinating tune. I may hate flying with them at times, but I cannot deny that I am ever so drawn to this airline in many of the strangest ways. What can I say? It’s a love-hate relationship for sure!

Today brings me on board an Emirates flight. With one out of about 400 others per day, chances are that this flight will depict a typical experience are probably slim. I’d like to think that there is no ‘typical’ within Emirates, and perhaps an experience could be as many as the airline has versions of its Business Class seat. However for today, my First Class Suite has sliding doors, so let’s take a look at what is revealed inside!



CONTINUED BELOW

WELCOME TO MY 27th TRIP REPORT
This TR will cover my flight on Emirates from Dubai to Johannesburg in First Class on the Boeing 777-300ER.



B A C K G R O U N D
Remember that whole TAAG-Angola 'Transito' ordeal from my previous Trip Report? Well in order to connect onto that flight, I needed a means of getting to Johannesburg, and hopefully with the least cost possible.

Well, First Class is anything but 'the least cost possible,' however my mileage bank with Emirates/Skywards had just enough miles for a one-way First Class redemption to Johannesburg, thanks to my epic A380 inaugural flight adventure a few years ago, and a more recent A380 hop to Toronto last year.

Of late, Emirates' frequent flyer program, now known as Emirates/Skywards, had received a rather extensive revamp. While I am not familiar with the deep mechanics that this has produced, many seem to have expressed complaints on the increased 'prices' for mileage redemption. For me, I try to make things a little more simpler, and if I have enough miles to spend, then it's done!

One thing that I found to be quite favorable in this revamp, is the ability to redeem flights on one-way travel. In the past, this was possible only with Etihad in the UAE, but now I see that Emirates has followed suit. Similarly, Emirates has also introduced a Flex Rewards scheme that offers redemption options on high demand periods and flights; again similar to Etihad (since when does EK copy other airlines?). I am sure that this revamp features more quirks, but I will leave that for others to figure out.

The decision to purchase this redemption was rather straight forward, and similarly, the action to do so on the Emirates/Skywards website was equally the same. A few clicks here and there, bish-bash-bosh, and my itinerary is confirmed. I was to travel to Johannesburg on Emirates, one night before catching my, then confirmed, Hellenic Imperial Airways flight, which was then converted to TAAG The Great!



D E P A R T U R E
Four and a half hours before my scheduled departure time, I was ready to head to the airport. My private chauffer transfer -an Emirates branded black Chevrolet Caprice- had already arrived at my building at 5:30am. At exactly 5:45am, and as per the time I had requested for the pick-up, I received a call from the driver to inform me that my ride had arrived.

Hopping into the car, and after a twenty minute drive I arrived at Dubai International Airport's Terminal 3 at 5:10am. I was dropped off at Emirates' premium passenger departure curbside area, which is a small area that is relative to the airline's rather small intentions for Dubai's O&D market. Nonetheless, the area was already filling up with Emirates transfers dropping off passengers for their Emirates flights. At Terminal 3, it is the home of Emirates and as such, the branding was loud and clear.



DXB Terminal 3 premium curbside


I saw this as I was pulling into the terminal, and had to walk back out for a picture




Inside the check-in hall at 6:20am, I am faced with everything Emirates, all branded within a semi-art techno-deco ambience that is Terminal 3. It is indeed an impressive building, but I felt that it is lacking a certain 'something' to it which I could not lay a finger on. However, what makes the traveling experience through this landside departures hall most impressive is the amount of free space that you have around you. There certainly is a lot more than you need in terms of counters, seating, baggage claim carousels and what not. However, this forward thinking in the construction of this building comes very handy today as I can enjoy this spaciousness until things become more congested a few years down the line.



The Emirates FIDS at DXB are practically a temple in which I must regularly pay my respects to




At the First Class check-in counters, the queues are a non-issue. Several counters dedicated to First Class customers were adequately staffed yet not too busy. As with all other check-in counters in this terminal, they are open for all Emirates flights, minus those bound for the USA. Of course, this is common practice usually, but it is still a relatively new concept in the Middle East.



Emirates First Class check-in counters






Now, as all the major GCC carriers are known to offer their bells and whistles on board their flights, they seem to overlook their offering on the ground which is quite the horrific contrary. However, I have never found this to be the case with Emirates. As inconsistent as they may be up in the air, they certainly have a rather pleasing bunch down on Earth, and it is no different in my experience today.

As I was approaching the agent at the check-in counter, another fellow passenger travelling on one of Emirates' 100+ destinations today, figured he could cut through the queue and snag my turn. Without any effort on my part, the Filipina agent took her action immediately.

"Hi sir, I am so sorry, but this kind gentleman has been waiting in line several moments before you, I will be with you as soon as I check him in."

As the usual affair was taking place during my check-in process, I was asked several unusual questions about whether I was a resident in South Africa, or if I had another passport that showed proof of residency there. Apparently, non-residents of South Africa must show proof of an itinerary outbound from the country in order to enter in the first place. However, this was all settled when I flashed the agent my TAAG itinerary that was to take me out of Jo'Burg the following day. As soon as that was cleared, my boarding pass was produced and I was wished a pleasant flight.



My boarding pass cum lounge invitation for DXB-JNB


A more crowded set of Business Class counters


Carrying on to secure myself airside






Passing through immigration and security, I was airside at 6:50am. Since the main landside area is located underground, several elevators and escalators are located right after security that transport passengers to the main terminal building.



FIFA branded elevators to main terminal building




As with Terminal 1, I was released into the large shopping mall of a Duty Free hall in Terminal 3. But this alone was not the astonishing part. It was the sheer thousands upon thousands of Emirates passengers parading from each and every corner of the building as they filtered between gates during their respective transits. Like a slap in the face that woke me up, it was one sight to see. I was a mere singleton amongst a gazillion others that formed part of an Emirates connecting bank, and it was truly amazing!



This does not justify the real thing!




Minus the décor and the funky smells, for a moment I thought I was at the fish market on a Friday morning. It was noisy, people were pushing their ways through, and it was quite uncomfortable. For once, I actually could not wait to reach the lounge.



One level above, I arrived at the Emirates First Class Lounge




At the lounge, I was immediately greeted by the friendly agents at the reception. After taking a quick look at my boarding pass, I was welcomed inside with a smile.



Inside the Emirates First Class lounge at DXB




By all means, this lounge is an absolute jaw-dropper. There is nothing here that you would not find in the lobby of one of the best 5-star hotels. Moreover, the space is massive, and it offers everything from showers, a spa, a business center, bedrooms, a library, a wine cellar, several café's each offering a selection of food, a full restaurant-style dining area, a few bars here and there, children's playrooms, more than ample seating areas, and a very elegant smoking lounge.

It is rare that I enjoy a lounge for it's very purpose however, this one is definitely the best I have ever been to. All in all, a truly classy mass-produced outfit!



Seating area






Library, Business Center, & Showers are on this corridoor


Fountain


A bar / café offering a selection of food and a full range of all types of beverages


More seating




Another bar / café


Food offering at this station


The main dining room offering a full breakfast buffet in addition to a la carte dining


Food offering at the main buffet














My choice for breakfast


Even more seating areas








At 7:45am when I was finished with my breakfast, I left the lounge to explore the terminal. However, I was again faced with the connecting bank parade that it was quite discouraging to stick around. Oddly enough, after a quick walk-around, I found myself back at the lounge for a quick smoke before heading to the gate.

While I was exploring the terminal, I found it to remind me of Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi, only on a more beastly scale. Similar to BKK, spotting of aircraft is considered non-existent with those heavily designed giant triangular windows. However, the terminal's ambience is far less dark and threatening than that of BKK - perhaps it's less of that industrial warehouse feel.



Another customary visit at the EK FIDS temple


Airport signage


Duty Free






Inside the belly of the beast lies a seafood bar


…and also a Changi-styled garden/pond


More of T3




Back at the lounge, this is the smoking area!




Ok, I may have broken my 'lounges get boring after 20 minutes' rule today, but by 9:20am I figured I've done this place and it was time to go back to an atmosphere that resembles more of an airport; the gate.



Ay 9:30am I arrived at Gate 221


The gate area




A queue had already formed at Gate 221, signaling that we were allowed to go inside the holding area. It was interesting to find two podiums staffed with Emirates Group Security employees -those associated with the pre-requisite for USA flights- conducting a document check on all passengers. As such, my passport was briefly checked, and I was allowed to proceed to the entrance to the gate, where my boarding pass was scanned and stubbed.



After document check


And down the escalator to the holding area


I was inside the holding area at 9:35am




As with flights to London, New York, Dubai, and Bangkok, this flight to Johannesburg featured a similar passenger profile; a little bit of everything. A quick scan revealed fellow passengers from Asia, India, Europe, and the Middle East, and also that my flight today was showing a healthy load factor in Economy Class.

Moments after, boarding had commenced for the premiums, and high-status FFP elites. While a small bunch of us made our ways towards the gate, others prepared a queue for their upcoming turn to board the aircraft.



Operating as EK763 non-stop to Johannesburg


Through the aerobridge




Arriving at Door 1L of the aircraft, I was greeted by a rather laid-back Mladen from Serbia, who was also the purser for today's flight.

"Welcome on board Mr. Hawi, your seat is right this way"
"Thanks"
"Enjoy your flight"



By 9:40am I was on board.



CONTINUED BELOW

F L I G H T
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Emirates Flight Information:

SCR
/EK/26JUN
S10
26JUN
DXB
KEK763 27MAR31OCT 1234567 35877W DXBDXB1015 1625JNBJNB J
GI BRGDS

Actual Departure Time: 10:24 (Pushback)
Actual Arrival Time: 16:03 (Touchdown)

Registration: A6-EBW
Condition: 3.6 years old, delivered to Emirates in 2006, and currently on lease from GECAS

Remarks: NIL

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Welcome to Emirates First Class




As we all know, Emirates is the revolutionary 'founder' of the First Class suite. As such, my experience with this was well overdue, but my first impressions were quite positive.

The cabin, as depicted in all pictures we have seen, looks rather futuristic and the absolute lack of overhead bins emphasizes the contour of the aircraft's fuselage. This makes it feel like I was inside something that was about to embark on a mission to outer space, and not necessarily a routine Triple 7 to Johannesburg. It was great for taking pictures, but not too favorable if you wished to stand and stretch in the narrow aisles. Naturally, the focus is not the spaciousness of the aisles, but the enclosure of the suites, which may require some aisle space for that extra little notch of additional comfort.



The cabin




At my suite, I am seated in my large leather bulkhead at 1A. Minus the usual overkill woodwork designs that we all know about, the seat is extremely comfortable, and the confines of my space do not have me feeling claustrophobic at all. I do however prefer my Cathay's more openness feel to her First Class design, but this Emirates offering is almost just as excellent!



The seat










The surroundings within the Suite are decked out with frills that make you feel like you have just been overstuffed with a Thanksgiving turkey dinner.

A large and perfectly laundered white pillow is placed on every seat, while a set of linens and duvet blankets are placed in a corner right behind you. On your side lies the infamous mini-bar, all stacked with an empty glass, soft drinks, water, and juice, in addition to the usual in-seat controller. At the mini 'desk' in front of the seat is a pop-out vanity mirror with a personal kit that includes the usual lotions and lip balms, and to your right is a small drawer specifically for your very own writing kit. Not only could I make myself comfortable on this long-haul flight, but I think I may manage living here for good!

But if we look at the bigger picture, this First Class cabin is one out of five other configurations that I could think of, that are within Emirates' offerings. Correct me if I am wrong, but the ones I have come up with are the following:

A) First Class Suite on the B777-300ER (featuring additional storage space under the IFE screen)
B) First Class Suite on the A340-500 (the original)
C) First Class Suite on the A380 (featuring the Digital Widescreen IFE, and new meal-wares)
D) Lie-Flat First Class Seat on the B777-300ER
E) Recliner First Class seat on the A330/A340

There's something for everyone!



The mini-bar


Seat controls




Vanity


Writing kit


Headset




On board this flight, was a set of 15 cabin crew, and two flight crew. Apart from the purser, two other crew were assigned for First Class, one of which was predominantly the galley operator who would make an occasional inspection around the cabin. There are two Senior Flight Stewards (or 'esses') on board -one for the premium cabins and the other for Economy- both of which are senior crew that supervise the service delivery on board, and report directly to the purser.

Out of this bunch, Jurgen from the Netherlands -seeming a little shy and dry at first impression- appeared with a tray of welcome drinks.

"Can I offer you something to drink? I have champagne, orange juice, and water"



This must be my first time having Dom Pérignon


A few gulps, and it went down beautifully!




At 9:50am the seatbelt sign was switched on, and Door 1L was closed 10 minutes afterwards when all First Class passengers were confirmed to be on board.

Captain Anil Abraham then made an announcement to welcome us on board, and to conduct the usual pre-flight briefing on our flight. He also informed us that our flight to Johannesburg today was to be 7 hours and 39 minutes.

Dates and Arabic coffee were offered -in which I declined- in addition to hot towels, and the cabin was then sprayed with a disinfectant.

The captain then made another PA to inform us of a slight delay that was due to airspace congestion in Oman. We would be waiting for clearance from Oman before making our way towards Jo'Burg. Naturally, this makes sense with all of the Gulfy airlines' morning banks up in the air, the remaining flights that are at the shoulders of these peaks would have to suffer a little more time incorporated into their time-blocks.

We finally pushed back at 10:24am and began our taxi to the runway.



Company B77W (A6-EBZ) soon to LHR


A6-EBB soon to somewhere else!


The shoulder of EK's morning bank


Company A380 (A6-EDB) operating EK412 to Sydney, and late as always!




11 minutes later, we thundered down the runway in typical triple-7 noise and thunder, and at 10:35am we were up in the air and on our way to Africa!

Five minutes after we lifted off, when we were almost at cruising altitude, the crew got up to prepare for the service, in which Mladen began by distributing the menus.

"Hi sir, how are you?"
"Good thanks and yourself?"
"I am very well too"
"I'd like to offer you the menu for today's flight"
"Thank you"
"Would you also care to see the wine list?"
"Yes please"



Menu












Wine list












Next in line with the in-flight service delivery, was Jurgen, who distributed slippers and eyeshades. Unfortunately, it was at that moment when I learned that no amenity kits in Emirates First Class are offered on daytime flights of this length! Sure enough, many airlines had subscribed to the 'no amenity kits in Business Class' club -and I am just beginning to adapt to this new concept- however since when was First Class on the chops too? Ouch!



Kitless slippers & eyeshades


I really like this suite!




The purser passed around the cabin to personally take everyone's meal orders. At my turn, Mladen smiled as he kneeled down on the floor. He did not seem too keen to be on this flight as he did not make any effort to personalize the service. Nevertheless, his bare minimums aren't really so bad, and at least he smiled; besides, I am sat on a First Class seat, so I shouldn't complain much!

"Can I offer you something to drink?"
"I'll have a Bloody Mary please"
"Would you like to have some canapés with that?"
"Yes please"
"Anything to eat?"
"I'll have the Arabic Mezzeh to start, the chicken breast for the main course, and we'll see later for dessert"

Service on this flight is dine-on-demand. Naturally, this is very easy on the crew and from what I hear, many First Class crew on Emirates do not wish for any further promotion; they remain in this cabin for years. While many First Class passengers do not wish to be disturbed while others may wish to eat whenever they wished. The passenger is happy, so is the crew, and costs can be saved.

Looking at the bigger picture again, the following are also some differences in services on different Emirates flights in First Class:

A) Dine-on-demand on the main fleet (featured on Suites, and with the old meal-wares)
B) Dine-on-demand on the A380 (featuring the new meal-wares)
C) Classic trolley service (featured on the rest)



An empty seat in-flight


Cabin during the flight




While my Bloody Mary was brewing, Jurgen appeared from the galley to place the infamous snack basket in each occupied suite. On offer in this basket were some crisps, chocolates, biscuits, and dried fruit.



Snack basket




"Sir, this is your Bloody Mary"
"Thank you"
"Can I offer you a bowl of nuts while you wait for your canapés?"
"Sure"



Bloody Mary & bowl of nuts




I have tried the Emirates Bloody Mary in Economy Class before, and I have judged the airline's ability in that area since then; it was horrible. But today, my opinion has changed for the more positive. It was spiced with a more balanced amount of ingredients, and most importantly, the vodka was not overkill (too much vodka covers the 'salt-ish-tomato-ish' flavor that makes this drink so great!).

Sipping on my drink, I began to further explore the offerings of my seat. After all, hardware is the specialty of Emirates, and technologically, this seat has got it all. The huge IFE screen offering the world-renown ICE, power-port, telephones, and USB ports, it's all here!

One thing to note, is that I found that personal storage space was quite adequate. Many in the past have complained about the lack of space to store things like a carry-on, but I believe that this problem was addressed after the First Class suite was implemented on a reduced 8-suite cabin on the B777 rather than the original 12-suite one on the A345. The removal of one row of the suites made way for additional storage room under the IFE screen, where my carry-on and laptop bag perfectly fit.



IFE controller & telephone


Power port


USB


Mobile phone storage?


Another storage compartment


Large IFE screen




My canapés arrived, and they consisted of a small plate with a vegetable skewer, grilled beef fillet with salsa verde, and prawn dumplings. They vegetables were perfectly cooked and their flavor went very well with the beef which was also quite tender. But the prawn dumplings were the best out of the bunch; all in all a delicious canapé!



Canapé






Jurgen, who was shy at first sight, appeared to have loosened up a little after noticing my excessive picturesque behavior. On each flight of late, someone has to ask!

"The pictures you're taking, are these for a magazine or for yourself?"
"For myself. This is a hobby of mine"
"Fair enough. Please enjoy your Canapé"

Once through with my drink, my glass and plate were cleared, and I was offered seconds on the Bloody Mary. My table was also set with all the necessary items such as the linen covering, a bread basket, plates, silverware, napkin, shakers, butter, and oil & vinegar. A nice little touch was incorporated into this setting when I found that the butter was shaped like half a football, given the current FIFA World Cup goings-on.

While Jurgen was busy setting this up, I decided to ask him a few questions. By then, the thoughts of a Luanda transit were haunting me, and I figured Emirates flies there so perhaps he could give me an insight on anything Luanda!

"I have a question. Have you been to Luanda by any chance? Since you guys fly there and all"
"Not me personally, but I will ask the rest of the crew and get back to you if that's okay?"
"Yes please. I am transiting through Luanda tomorrow, and I would like to have some idea about it before I arrive there"

He then returned back to the galley and then immediately reappeared with my Mezzeh plate, which included shanklish, moutabbal, stuffed vine leaves, pickles, and bamia fil zeit (stewed okra with a tomato sauce and olive oil).



Table set-up




FIFA Butter






Mezzeh plate




The Mezzeh platter was quite delicious. Stuffed vine leaves (the cold ones) are my absolute favorite Arabic food, and this one by Emirates Flight Catering was excellent. Even the Moutabal, which I am not a big fan of usually, was quite a tasty as well.



My main course was served soon after I was through with my starter






The main course was a fusion between east and west. It consisted of a chicken breast with a tomato and coriander sauce, over a small bed of biryani rice and a vegetable korma on the side. The chicken was not pink, which was great, and the coriander sauce gave it a lot of flavor. However, the rice was too oily, and the korma a little on the creamy side.

"Sir, I have asked all the crew on board this flight, and no one has gone to Luanda yet. But I am sure we will eventually"
"Ok. Thanks for that"
"I hope you will not face any trouble there! But good luck with that anyways!"
"I hope so too"

I requested to have my table cleared after the meal, and decided to skip dessert and convert it into a second meal which I will have prior to landing. Instead, I opted to convert my seat into a flat position, and convert it into a bed.

Jurgen noticed my efforts in making my own bed, and he immediately offered to do it for me. "I can help you with that sir," he said, offering to place the sheet and the blanket on my seat. "Here you go, now you can take a picture of it while it looks nice."

But before making landfall on my bed, a quick trip to the Emirates First Class lavatory was necessary. "Taking pictures of the lavatory even? haha", Jurgen said in quite a surprise when he saw me whisk past the galley.

Hovering around my bed










At this point, I laid in my bed, and closed the doors of my suite. It felt very private, and not as cramped as I thought. The doors while opened, definitely gave more space to the ambience, but the enclosed privacy is also quite unique; it was actually comfortable and snuggly!



Lavatory






Back in my suite, it was time to doze off for most of the remaining flight time. The bed just the way it is at home, and I fell asleep straight away.



In bed with Emirates!




Waking up approximately three hours before landing, I hopped out of my bed and into the galley for a stretch. Looking a little crumpled still, Ratana from Thailand -the SFS overseeing the premium cabins- must have noticed my rather messy state.

"Can I offer you something to drink sir?"
"A Diet Coke please"
"With ice and lemon?"



My Diet Coke


My seat after 5 hours of flight


More cabin & seat shots








I was not in a mood for IFE, and frankly, almost every Trip Report compares the IFE with ICE; there really is not much more one can say about how great it is. However, let me brag about one more thing. During the FIFA World Cup, Emirates passengers are able to watch a recoded playing of the most recent matches on the ICE onboard entertainment system.



On today's flight, Brazil vs Portugal resulted in a 0-0 draw




In the mood for that dessert I decided to skip earlier, I stopped Ratana as she was conducting a look around the aisle.

"Excuse me. May I have a cup of tea please?"
"Certainly. What would you like? May I show you the selection?"
"Actually, I'll have some green tea if it's available"
"Sure. Anything else with that?"
"May I also have the raspberry crumble cake?"
"Of course. Cinnamon sauce with that?"
"Yes please"



My table was immediately set up for the meal








I usually have a craving for something sweet when I take a nap during the daytime hence, this raspberry crumble was the perfect solution for that. The cake was warm and moist, and the ice cream provided a little 'kick and cool' to the flavor -as is always the case with a crumble dessert!

After I was through and my table was cleared, it was time for a quick visit to 'How The Other Half Lives.'



Business Class




Economy Class




At 3:35pm local time in Johannesburg, Captain Anil made an announcement to inform us that we were to begin initial descent soon, and that we were expected to land in 30 minutes.

While all preparations were being made for landing, a hot towel service was conducted as the grand finale that concluded the in-flight service on board this flight. As we neared final approach at around 3:50pm, the seatbelt sign was switched on and the crew were eventually requested to take their seats for landing.



One final picture inside the suite




A R R I V A L
We touched down at Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport at 4:03pm, bringing this flight to an end. Taxiing past several South African birds, we eventually docked at a gate adjacent to Air France's A380 - a regular visitor here.

I thanked the crew for their efforts and proceeded to exit the aircraft and make my way into the terminal. Immigration was rather effortless, and so was customs, and I eventually found myself landside in the arrivals hall.

I had a limousine service booked on arrival, to transport me to the Southern Sun OR Tambo Airport Hotel, which is barely several meters away from the terminal building. However, it was a little difficult at first to find where I could find anyone responsible for this Emirates' service, and the information desk proved to be of very little help.

However, in no time, a group of uniformed drivers appeared in the arrivals hall, and holding a large sign that had the Emirates logo on it, and it was an easy breeze from then on.



C O N C L U S I O N
Overall, I had quite a pleasant experience with Emirates in First Class. The suite was very comfortable, the food was of good quality, and you are given total privacy away from the hustle and bustle that is usually associated with traveling. The crew was also reasonably good, and especially Jurgen who was the absolute best out of the bunch on this flight.

What Emirates seems to lack however, is a personalized touch to all these frills that you are offered. The purser for example, spent most of the flight writing notes in the galley. Sure enough, this is the purser's job, but very little effort was made on addressing a passenger by name, or striking a meaningless conversation with a passenger about something that makes them feel like they are taken care of. It is one thing to be quite formal and professional, but today's style of service is about that extra personal touch. Or, maybe this is the Emirates First Class experience where you are given total unobtrusive privacy to match with that of what is offered by the suite itself.

Emirates overall has a decent product, and it really does depend on the flight you are on. This is just how we have to look at it. One thing is for sure, and that Emirates offers one of the best on-the-ground products I have experienced. From ground handling and all the way to their lounges, everything to me is absolutely perfect.

After all, a network carrier the size of Emirates, and one that offers the hardware that it does will not need to focus as much on a 5-star Asian airline style of service. Your everyday traveler -the public masses- only care about passing time while in an airplane. And for this, Emirates has that covered.



This concludes my Trip Report. I hope that you have enjoyed it; your comments are always welcome!

Regards,
Roni







E Q U I P M E N T
- Camera:
- Canon 50D

- Lenses:
- Sigma 10-20mm Wide Angle
- Sigma 10mm Fisheye
- Canon 18-55mm



PREVIOUS WORK
Transito!: A Connection On TAAG-Angola (B743/B772) (by ronerone Jul 31 2010 in Trip Reports)
Keeping Up With The JETs: 9W Première HKG-DEL-DXB (by ronerone Jul 18 2010 in Trip Reports)
Petra Express!: On Royal Jordanian's A330-200 (by ronerone Jun 11 2010 in Trip Reports)
Suite Redemptions: Cathay Pacific BKK-HKG In F (by ronerone May 14 2010 in Trip Reports)
Uniquely Boutique: Oman Air Business Class To BKK (by ronerone Apr 3 2010 in Trip Reports)
In A Blink Of An Eye: AirAsia X’s A340 At AUH (by ronerone Feb 20 2010 in Trip Reports)
SriLankan Airlines: The Treasure Of Serendib! (by Ronerone Jan 9 2010 in Trip Reports)
Beijing Swire!: Cathay Pacific & Dragonair DXB-PEK (by Ronerone Dec 11 2009 in Trip Reports)
OpenSkies From British Airways: A New Era's End? (by Ronerone Oct 14 2009 in Trip Reports)
Revealing An Underdog: Royal Brunei Business Class (by Ronerone Sep 3 2009 in Trip Reports)
The Singapore Airlines Cliché (by Ronerone Jul 27 2009 in Trip Reports)
A380: Qantas Proper To SIN City (by Ronerone Jul 6 2009 in Trip Reports)
Welcome To Terminal 3: Etihad Airways AUH-SYD (by Ronerone Jul 6 2009 in Trip Reports)
5th Freedom Of The Air: Kenya Airways HKG-BKK-HKG (by Ronerone Mar 31 2009 in Trip Reports)
Cathay Pacific: First Class On The Legacy Milk-Run (by Ronerone Jan 26 2009 in Trip Reports)
Inspirations On A Narrowbody: Etihad To Amman (by Ronerone Nov 28 2008 in Trip Reports)
Malaysia Boleh!: On The Malaysian Airline System (by Ronerone Oct 28 2008 in Trip Reports)
Pearls & Diamonds: Inspired By Etihad Airways (by Ronerone Sep 12 2008 in Trip Reports)
The Future Has Arrived: EK A380 Inaugural Flights (by Ronerone Aug 4 2008 in Trip Reports)
Syrian Special Performance, Featuring Sam Chui (by Ronerone May 23 2008 in Trip Reports)
This Is Royal Jordanian! (by Ronerone Apr 12 2008 in Trip Reports)
Ultra-Competitive, Ultra-Long Haul: EY Vs EK (by Ronerone Mar 21 2008 in Trip Reports)
Suvarnabhumi, The Etihad Way! (by Ronerone Jan 18 2008 in Trip Reports)
Cathay Delight: A Trip To Asia's World City (by Ronerone Oct 5 2007 in Trip Reports)
Etihad: Pearl 2 AMM, Coral Right Back Pt 2 PixVidz (by Ronerone Jul 5 2007 in Trip Reports)
Etihad: Pearl 2 AMM, Coral Right Back Pt 1 PixVids (by Ronerone Jul 4 2007 in Trip Reports)
CX: JFK-HKG-DXB In Y A346/772 (Lots Of Pics/Vids) (by Ronerone Aug 28 2006 in Trip Reports)



F L I C K R
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jy-rwh79/sets/72157624843638394/

F A C E B O O K
R. Wadei Hawi
Please mention who you are when (and if) you want to add me as a friend


YOU TUBE
Username: ronerone
I have a range of taxi, takeoff, landing, announcement, and safety videos posted. Feel free to view them!



THE END

Awesome piece of work Roni. Impeccable, entertaining and well thought out, as usual. Beautiful presentation. I like how you theorize that EK's style of service perhaps isn't a shortcoming, but intentional, to give the passenger the ultimate in privacy and comfort.
Well done!
Happy Eid,
DG/Omar

Mr. Roni
You have did it again !Well I just had quick browse and I am stunned as usual the text is wonderful and you very much portray my view of Emirates , It is certainly a love-hate relationship .
The pictures are superb and I love Emirates Branding , you know its so bold and thats the way to do it. Emirates certainly isn't the best out there but its my personal favorite.

Thanks for the effort , you know how much I just love indulging in your trip reports and this certainly is no exception , be assured that when I regain my senses I will be commenting again as there is lots to be argued about 

Cheers
Islam Darwish

I'm speechless. Terrific TR, thanks for sharing. I came across the pics on flickr - Now ended up cross-posting. ^^
While anything from aircraft interior to lounge services can be amazing w/ EK, esp. @DXB, the only thing that looks weird to me is the F Check-In design - It kinda reminds me of Silver/Metal themed kitchens for some reason...

+1 on the EK success statement - On the other hand, part of me is still fascinated by the EK expansion path & strategies. Looks like I need to delve deeper ...

Thanks for sharing!

Roni,

That 1st picture you took that starts your TR is absolutely amazing! You should definitely try and sent that to EK's Corporate office for their use. Maybe they'll reward you somehow! The rest of your TR was insightful and well put together as usual.

Hi Roni,

What a masterpiece! Your first picture is an instant eye-catcher. I just love your background story which warms everyone up for what is coming.

I cannot leave commenting on many sequences of your report.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Emirates First Class check-in counters

Appealing displays below the First Class designation screens about the First Class comfort.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): As I was approaching the agent at the check-in counter, another fellow passenger travelling on one of Emirates' 100+ destinations today, figured he could cut through the queue and snag my turn. Without any effort on my part, the Filipina agent took her action immediately. "Hi sir, I am so sorry, but this kind gentleman has been waiting in line several moments before you, I will be with you as soon as I check him in."

Way to go for the Filipina agent. I did not understand why some people, like a First Class traveler in your case, cannot be more aware of the fact that they are not more privileged than other passengers traveling in the same class.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): By all means, this lounge is an absolute jaw-dropper.

Well, that is what I am doing now.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Food offering at the main buffet

Amazing! I like the black bread oven.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Back at the lounge, this is the smoking area!

The most luxurious smoking area I have ever seen.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): Jurgen from the Netherlands

Finally, a Dutch EK flight attendant has been spotted.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): This must be my first time having Dom Pérignon

Really? How is it like losing your virginity on that?  

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): Unfortunately, it was at that moment when I learned that no amenity kits in Emirates First Class are offered on daytime flights of this length! Sure enough, many airlines had subscribed to the 'no amenity kits in Business Class' club -and I am just beginning to adapt to this new concept- however since when was First Class on the chops too? Ouch!

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): Vanity

Even though, you had got vanity items in your Suite, it is surprising that EK has scrapped the amenity kit on First Class.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): Power port

One thing I cannot miss out for my camera. How about you?

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): FIFA Butter

Nice touch! Though I am not into football.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): "Taking pictures of the lavatory even? haha", Jurgen said in quite a surprise when he saw me whisk past the galley.

Nice to have such a considerate flight attendant. 

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): Business Class

I spot some empty seats there. It looks like Business Class was not fully booked.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): Economy Class

The cabin looks elegant with the stars on the ceiling.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): we eventually docked at a gate adjacent to Air France's A380 - a regular visitor here.

Way too regular to my liking. Especially on the last 12th of July.  

Thanks for sharing this impressive trip and remarkable insight of First Class Lounge. Truly entertaining from the start until the finish. I have got inspired for my following trip reports!  

Cheers,
Suryo

Wonderful TR here Roni. One question though, your boarding pass says "BLUE", which refers to Skywards Blue. I thought you would be Silver or Gold by this time to have enough miles to do first class to JNB. I just flew EK all teh way from LAX to BLR in Economy, still love it every time i step on board.

Roni
Don't you get bored getting all those compliments?
Beautiful pictures excellent report, EK should use you in there PR department.
Thank you very much, keep them coming.

Nice report Roner, great pics as usual but minus that something LOL, hope you dont mind me ponting that out, did you change camera, lens or settings?

I still dont get why F has those generic munchies, they used to give Godiva in the 90s, why not Lindtt or anything sophisticated, even After 8 would be more suited, guess they cant do much about the generic bevarges but munchies yes. I know it does the job and peole are happy with it, but not my style for F class, thumbs down on that EK.

Thanks for another beautifully written report!

Emirates First Class is nice in terms of hardware, but the software in general needs some tune ups. The airline is expanding too much and the airline just can't keep up with the consistency level of service being delivered by a multicultural crew. I really agree with your perception. Other than the purser, the First Class F/As seem to be quite good on your flight. However, I was shocked that Emirates did not pass out amenity kit and slipper on this long flight even on daytime. I understand not giving out kits and stuff on a three hours hop to Athens or Amman, but daytime exceeding four flights are pretty long, and EK has so many connecting passengers that they are all in different zones.

However, Emirates is really generous when it comes to amenity kits on overnight flights. A Singapore to Colombo flight or even Colombo to Dubai overnight flights will get you the amenity kits and sleeperwear, but not on a daytime eight hours flight from DXB to JNB. I believe EK's amenity kit policies are basically all flights over three hours that depart after midnight for first and business class.

I think SQ has the most sensible policy - amenity kits and PJ on all flights over three hours that depart after midnight, or on all daytime flights that exceed six hours. Apply to first class here! SQ website documents it.

However the more urgent issue for EK is to address the consistency of service delivered and to hire some really good F/As. Expansion is too fast and not enough time to train the crew. QR has better F/As because it has a smaller base and a more sensible expansion policy.

Thanks again,
Carfield

Another Masterpiece TR by Roni. When looking at the TR forum, I read your name before I even read the title!  

DXB T3 is a beauty, and Emirates looks stunning. This really is incredible.

Salam,
EgyptAir269

Once again Roni, another excellent offering! I felt as if I was a First Class passenger on that flight. Really fantastic job.

Roni,
I can only agree with everyone else: excellent trip reports and photos. The contrast between the mad crush in T3 generally and the relative peace of the First Class Lounge really stands out.

You could be right about the style in First being that you are left undisturbed. Unlike in Y or J, dining is on demand and can be ordered by phoning from your suite or pressing the service button. However a few pleasantries go a long way to making passengers feel welcome and allowing people to remain undisturbed does not mean being inattentive or cold.

Sure we all like to get those little freebies, but is an amenity kit really necessary? The toilets are stocked with toothbrushes and paste, shaving gel, razors and aftershave lotion. How many people actually use the kits during the flights rather than taking them home as a souvenir? But I agree, it would be nice to receive them on all longer flights and not just overnight flights.

Best wishes.

As always awesome trip report!

And only because you do maintain such a high level of reporting I just had to point out.......

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): At exactly 5:45am, and as per the time I had requested for the pick-up, I received a call from the driver to inform me that my ride had arrived. Hopping into the car, and after a twenty minute drive I arrived at Dubai International Airport's Terminal 3 at 5:10am.

So Emirates has time traveling limo service now?! That really is a great perk for first class passengers!
 

Seriously....loved all the photos! I do have to ask...the one photo taken near the ground...



Did you LIE down on the ground to take that? Anyone else I would doubt it...but you are so committed...perhaps you'd even go to those lengths to document your trip?
 

In the First class lounge...did each bar/cafe area have the SAME type of food? Or did different ones have different themes so you could pick an area based on the type of food you wanted?

So are you going to give us a teaser of what your next TR might be?

Whatever it is...can't wait!

Hi Roni,

another spectacular TR!

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): I was dropped off at Emirates' premium passenger departure curbside area, which is a small area that is relative to the airline's rather small intentions for Dubai's O&D market. Nonetheless, the area was already filling up with Emirates transfers dropping off passengers for their Emirates flights. At Terminal 3, it is the home of Emirates and as such, the branding was loud and clear.

Even if we analyse the lower scaled version of the QR's premium terminal, the curbside is very small when compared to the traffic passing between the premium terminal. Very less thought put for O-D passengers.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): However, this forward thinking in the construction of this building comes very handy today as I can enjoy this spaciousness until things become more congested a few years down the line.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): A more crowded set of Business Class counters

Somehow that exclusive feel does not remain with a high volume carrier like EK.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Minus the décor and the funky smells, for a moment I thought I was at the fish market on a Friday morning. It was noisy, people were pushing their ways through, and it was quite uncomfortable. For once, I actually could not wait to reach the lounge.

Here is what I like about Changi, even during peak times, the airport does not seem that crowded when compared to the morning crowd of EK. Sure it is all about volume, but Changi seems to always keep that quiet environment even when flights to MAA, BOM, DEL, DAC are boarding.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): As inconsistent as they may be up in the air, they certainly have a rather pleasing bunch down on Earth, and it is no different in my experience today.

Really? If I were to give you an example of my Dad's supposed premium experience with the EK ground staff, you will definitely have a good laugh.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): It is rare that I enjoy a lounge for it's very purpose however, this one is definitely the best I have ever been to. All in all, a truly classy mass-produced outfit!

Wow that's truly amazing!

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): I do however prefer my Cathay's more openness feel to her First Class design, but this Emirates offering is almost just as excellent!

You just had to get Cathay in   

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): it was at that moment when I learned that no amenity kits in Emirates First Class are offered on daytime flights of this length! Sure enough, many airlines had subscribed to the 'no amenity kits in Business Class' club -and I am just beginning to adapt to this new concept- however since when was First Class on the chops too? Ouch!

Hmm .... are many airlines following the suit? That too in F class?

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): I have tried the Emirates Bloody Mary in Economy Class before, and I have judged the airline's ability in that area since then; it was horrible. But today, my opinion has changed for the more positive. It was spiced with a more balanced amount of ingredients, and most importantly, the vodka was not overkill (too much vodka covers the 'salt-ish-tomato-ish' flavor that makes this drink so great!).

Seems you are an authority on Bloody Mary ; lol

thanks for sharing the wonderful report

Another great report Roni, but the day I read a Qatar Airways trip report from you, I'll be very happy!!

Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): But Etihad is more like a rebellious little girl that still needs her mother’s guidance. Emirates on the other hand, cannot even be remotely correlated to any human, let alone a female like Etihad. Perhaps a plant, if Emirates is to be that giant beanstalk that Jack decides to climb.

Love the comparison to Etihad lol, but I think you can truly say that Emirates is the great Matriarch, that once was glorious but now with age is starting to show her wrinkles. And Etihad still in her youth is grooming herself to follow in the Matriarch's footsteps but at a much smaller scale.

I could tell compared to your trip report on Etihad, Emirates was just short of compliments. Yes the cabin is awesome but as far as personal touches and service went, Etihad shone bright right from the start.

Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): I may hate flying with them at times, but I cannot deny that I am ever so drawn to this airline in many of the strangest ways. What can I say? It’s a love-hate relationship for sure!

It's been that way with me with them too, but in Y class.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): and a more recent A380 hop to Toronto last year.

You came to Toronto? I guess since you already did a A380 J class report you didn't do another one?

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): However, what makes the traveling experience through this landside departures hall most impressive is the amount of free space that you have around you.

The main arrivals and departure halls are so huge, wide open and seem cold and unfriendly. (I know I've mentioned this before

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): As with all other check-in counters in this terminal, they are open for all Emirates flights, minus those bound for the USA.

Quite annoying that the flights to the USA have their counters at the far end.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): But this alone was not the astonishing part. It was the sheer thousands upon thousands of Emirates passengers parading from each and every corner of the building as they filtered between gates during their respective transits. Like a slap in the face that woke me up, it was one sight to see. I was a mere singleton amongst a gazillion others that formed part of an Emirates connecting bank, and it was truly amazing!

This is where the vibe of the Sheikh Rashid Terminal comes back into Terminal 3. However with the Sheikh Rashid everything was right bang in front of you, shops, resting areas, washrooms. Here if I recall correctly the main thoroughfare was in the middle, but the gate areas and other resting areas are behind the shops.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): My choice for breakfast

Was the bread and jams already laid out at each table?

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Back at the lounge, this is the smoking area!

Cough, cough lol

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): The gate area

Most of these Middle Eastern carriers allow you to not only take your hand carry with you, but the huge bags of Duty Free purchases. The policy of one carry on only on board does not apply there. I know my own Duty Free bags far exceeded the 7kgs that were allowed as hand carry.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): The cabin, as depicted in all pictures we have seen, looks rather futuristic and the absolute lack of overhead bins emphasizes the contour of the aircraft's fuselage.

I've seen pics of the First Class area so many times but only now am I made to realise that there are no overhead bins. I think the ambiance below is so much you don't realise what is missing above lol

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): The purser passed around the cabin to personally take everyone's meal orders. At my turn, Mladen smiled as he kneeled down on the floor. He did not seem too keen to be on this flight as he did not make any effort to personalize the service. Nevertheless, his bare minimums aren't really so bad, and at least he smiled; besides, I am sat on a First Class seat, so I shouldn't complain much!

You have every right to complain being on a First Class seat. You are just too nice I guess. I'm surprised that the service all the way down did not suffer because of this, because quite frankly when the purser himself/herself is complacent, then what need for the others in the rank below need to worry about having to ensure top notch service.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Service on this flight is dine-on-demand

Again, here is something that Emirates copied from Etihad. Etihad was the first to introduce their "Inspired Service" and if I am not mistaken it applies to their Business class cabins as well.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): A nice little touch was incorporated into this setting when I found that the butter was shaped like half a football, given the current FIFA World Cup goings-on.

Well you were after all flying to a FIFA World Cup hosting nation  

Hi Roni,

what to say other than "excellent", "fantastic", "wonderful"? Thanks for taking so much time regularly to compose all that. You described well what makes EK so special - despite certain weaknesses.

The F Class product looks great, of course. However, I simply don't like the excessive use of golden design elements. Less is more sometimes.

Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): I saw this as I was pulling into the terminal, and had to walk back out for a picture

Ok, what will they do with it once the 787 finally enters into service?  

Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): My boarding pass cum lounge invitation for DXB-JNB

Quite odd that they use simple white paper for the F Class boarding pass.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Company A380 (A6-EDB) operating EK412 to Sydney, and late as always!

Always nice to see "my first A380". But why is EK412 always late?

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): "The pictures you're taking, are these for a magazine or for yourself?" "For myself. This is a hobby of mine"

"...and for thousands of a.net users", you should have added.  

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): During the FIFA World Cup, Emirates passengers are able to watch a recoded playing of the most recent matches on the ICE onboard entertainment system.

Very impressive!


PH

Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 18): Ok, what will they do with it once the 787 finally enters into service?

Emirates has not ordered the 787. They have 70 A350XWBs on order. (Oh I see what you mean, now    lol)

[Edited 2010-09-05 23:37:16]

loved your report and the lengths you go to for your pics - which are always great. had to chuckle when the cabin crew observed how many pics you were taking, including in the lav ! At least they left you to it, rather than making life difficult! thanks for posting this. I really enjoyed your TAAG report as well. P-jet

Stunning, simply stunning. Roni, I think I've run out of fresh superlatives to describe your trip reports. Your uncanny ability to encapsulate a trip - any old trip really - and package it into the most amazing journey of discovery is without parallel. On a flight in Emirates First Class Suites, well, you're really in your element. I especially like the insights that only an insider can provide, the grudging comparisons with the other major Emirati airline is not a surprise, but hearing EY being referred to as a "rebellious girl" is a first. Give the kid a break, she's only seven after all   The pictures are, as always, mind blowing. The first pic sets the tone from the outset - shiny, glittery, over-the-top like something straight out of the Burj Al Arab: 7-star accommodations as only a Dubai-based carrier knows how! Bravo.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): I am faced with everything Emirates, all branded within a semi-art techno-deco ambience that is Terminal 3. It is indeed an impressive building, but I felt that it is lacking a certain 'something' to it which I could not lay a finger on.

Interesting you should say that. No one will complain about the facility because it is so much better than most places around the world - but I was somehow expecting more from Emirates - especially for their F Class.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): The Emirates FIDS at DXB are practically a temple in which I must regularly pay my respects to

Haha... more cult than religion I presume  

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): It was the sheer thousands upon thousands of Emirates passengers parading from each and every corner of the building as they filtered between gates during their respective transits. Like a slap in the face that woke me up, it was one sight to see. I was a mere singleton amongst a gazillion others that formed part of an Emirates connecting bank, and it was truly amazing!

That's the exact feeling I got the last time I was there - quite a shock actually. Masses of people everywhere. And everyone holding an EK boarding pass - scary!

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): All in all, a truly classy mass-produced outfit!

What an apt description. The First Class lounge is definitely far less crowded than the J class equivalent - they are both about the same size, aren't they?

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): I do however prefer my Cathay's more openness feel to her First Class design

But of course, one wouldn't expect anything less from you   The pictures of the EK suites are great. Like Burj, I am astounded by the extent of the heights and depths (quite literally) you go to bring us every nook and crany of this F class experience. Thank you.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): A) Dine-on-demand on the main fleet (featured on Suites, and with the old meal-wares) B) Dine-on-demand on the A380 (featuring the new meal-wares) C) Classic trolley service (featured on the rest)

Interesting variation - I didn't realize the classic trolley service was still in existence, but that's probably the nicest (at least from a trip reports' perspective!)

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): During the FIFA World Cup, Emirates passengers are able to watch a recoded playing of the most recent matches on the ICE onboard entertainment system.

I remember flying EK during the last World Cup and thinking how impressive that was. It even included a whole separate IFE guide on fixtures and the like.


Thanks again for this fantastic trip report!

Cheers,
airpearl

Thanks for a great TR Roni, hugely enjoyable as always!

I still can't help but think that the EK suites are just a little bit tacky, all that gold a 'walnut veneer' a tad OTT in my opinion, the food service on the other hand looks very stylish.

Cheers & thanks again!

Nick

Everyone has already said great things about your trip report, no use in me repeating what they said as I am sure you know exactly how I feel about your reports by now.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Inside the Emirates First Class lounge at DXB

I got to say, I am quite surprised at how luxurious the First Class lounge looks. Definitely impressed with what is on offer.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Inside the belly of the beast lies a seafood bar

One of those exist at JFK Terminal 4 too. I was there the other day.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): Headset

How were these? I have to say they don't look all that appealing, did they actually cut out a lot of noise? I have had my pair of BOSE for years now. I can not find anything better and when you consider the fact that airlines such as Jet, Kingfisher and even American Airlines offer them to their premium passengers, I can't help but think there is room for improvement at EK.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): I requested to have my table cleared after the meal, and decided to skip dessert and convert it into a second meal which I will have prior to landing.

No, no, no! You have one dessert now and then the other one before landing. This way you get to try both!

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): "Here you go, now you can take a picture of it while it looks nice."

That was nice of him.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): The cake was warm and moist, and the ice cream provided a little 'kick and cool' to the flavor -as is always the case with a crumble dessert!

While the crumble looks delicious (though I am a sucker for anything sweet), the presentation looked extremely ordinary. The way my apple crumble was presented in J on QR was light years ahead of this EK F presentation.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): The crew was also reasonably good, and especially Jurgen who was the absolute best out of the bunch on this flight.

There is a reason we both liked flying KLM back in our college days right?  

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): After all, a network carrier the size of Emirates, and one that offers the hardware that it does will not need to focus as much on a 5-star Asian airline style of service.

Agreed, but then Emirates should probably tone down their marketing to reflect this.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): Your everyday traveler -the public masses- only care about passing time while in an airplane. And for this, Emirates has that covered.

I could not agree with you more.

Quoting ojas (Reply 16): You just had to get Cathay in

Ojas, Cathay is the best airline in the world, not just according to Roni but myself as well. I know you could care less about them, but they are the benchmark that Roni and I use. Kind of the way you use QR as your benchmark.  

Quoting SR 103 (Reply 23): Ojas, Cathay is the best airline in the world, not just according to Roni but myself as well. I know you could care less about them, but they are the benchmark that Roni and I use. Kind of the way you use QR as your benchmark.

Nope, you might be mistaken here. I normally use SQ as my benchmark and at times one of my most memorable AI flights to BOM (when all of AI's stars were aligned that day) as well. QR is my preferred airline for several other reasons and the most important being that my family is in Doha   

As an aside I'm finally flying CX later this month after 13 years. But don't worry it's not to test CX per se, but it was more because I got a dirt cheap fare on that flight. And I promise to write good things about them!!!   

And yet another awesome trip report from you, ronerone! Thank you!

Your flight seems to be pretty much on par with the recent trend of EK trip reports. A truly excellent hard product with a somewhat less-impressive soft product.

Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): Minus the décor and the funky smells, for a moment I thought I was at the fish market on a Friday morning. It was noisy, people were pushing their ways through, and it was quite uncomfortable. For once, I actually could not wait to reach the lounge.

I noticed the same thing when I was in DXB a few years ago. It's unpleasant indeed.

Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): It is rare that I enjoy a lounge for it's very purpose however, this one is definitely the best I have ever been to. All in all, a truly classy mass-produced outfit!

I must say the lounge in DXB looks AMAZING. That has to be the best premium lounge in world. I want to fly EK just to use that lounge.

Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): Library

Of course!

Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): While Jurgen was busy setting this up, I decided to ask him a few questions. By then, the thoughts of a Luanda transit were haunting me, and I figured Emirates flies there so perhaps he could give me an insight on anything Luanda!

Haha I know exactly how you were feeling  .

Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): After I was through and my table was cleared, it was time for a quick visit to 'How The Other Half Lives.'

Oh, look at that lowly business class!

I look forward to seeing some more trip reports from you.

Hi Roni.

Another great TR! I always enjoy reading your TRs and the pics are really great as well. Great attention to detail.

Cheers,

Ricardo

Fantastic. This was a really excellent TR. I thoroughly enjoyed it very much. The photos were fantastic. It did, however, look like F was relatively empty. What was the load in F like?

Dear All,

Thanks for all your great comments!

Quoting directorguy (Reply 3): Awesome piece of work Roni. Impeccable, entertaining and well thought out, as usual. Beautiful presentation.

Hi Omar,

Thanks for stopping by!

Quoting directorguy (Reply 3): I like how you theorize that EK's style of service perhaps isn't a shortcoming, but intentional, to give the passenger the ultimate in privacy and comfort.

It may be, given that the A380 crew are trained to associate First Class service with "My own private jet".

Quoting EkA380 (Reply 4): Mr. Roni You have did it again !Well I just had quick browse and I am stunned as usual the text is wonderful and you very much portray my view of Emirates , It is certainly a love-hate relationship . The pictures are superb and I love Emirates Branding , you know its so bold and thats the way to do it. Emirates certainly isn't the best out there but its my personal favorite. Thanks for the effort , you know how much I just love indulging in your trip reports and this certainly is no exception , be assured that when I regain my senses I will be commenting again as there is lots to be argued about Cheers Islam Darwish

Hey Islam,

Glad you enjoyed! You are the EK man on this forum after all  

Quoting rcaq (Reply 5): the only thing that looks weird to me is the F Check-In design - It kinda reminds me of Silver/Metal themed kitchens for some reason...

Hi rcaq,

You may be onto something. Perhaps that was what i found to be missing out of the T3 experience at DXB.

Though, i think with EK, it is designed for practicality.

Quoting rcaq (Reply 5): On the other hand, part of me is still fascinated by the EK expansion path & strategies. Looks like I need to delve deeper ...

Same! Who wouldn't be  

Quoting jfklucky777 (Reply 6): Roni, That 1st picture you took that starts your TR is absolutely amazing! You should definitely try and sent that to EK's Corporate office for their use. Maybe they'll reward you somehow! The rest of your TR was insightful and well put together as usual.

Thanks jfklucky777. Glad you enjoyed!

Quoting akhmad (Reply 7): What a masterpiece! Your first picture is an instant eye-catcher. I just love your background story which warms everyone up for what is coming.

Thank you Suryo!

Quoting akhmad (Reply 7): I like the black bread oven.

Me too actually. Very classic!

Quoting akhmad (Reply 7): Really? How is it like losing your virginity on that?

It was very exciting .. and i feel like a grown up now  

Quoting akhmad (Reply 7): Even though, you had got vanity items in your Suite, it is surprising that EK has scrapped the amenity kit on First Class.

I think, EK can do away with the vseparate vanity kits, slippers, and eyeshades, and replace with a simple EK branded kit that contains a little bit of everything.

Quoting akhmad (Reply 7): One thing I cannot miss out for my camera. How about you?

I have about 4 batteries for my camera, and i try to have them all charged before i leave home. However, i have had to use the occasional power port here and there.

Quoting akhmad (Reply 7): I spot some empty seats there. It looks like Business Class was not fully booked.

Yes. I was quite surprised to have been able to book this redemption ticket during the World Cup event on this flight.

Quoting akhmad (Reply 7): Way too regular to my liking. Especially on the last 12th of July.

That is why you should try the EK A380  

Quoting caliatenza (Reply 8): your boarding pass says "BLUE", which refers to Skywards Blue. I thought you would be Silver or Gold by this time to have enough miles to do first class to JNB

Hi caliatenza,

My tier miles are only enough to keep me at the Blue level due to inactivity. But my Skywards Miles are still there. I've had some expire recently though.

Quoting SOBHI51 (Reply 9): Roni Don't you get bored getting all those compliments? Beautiful pictures excellent report, EK should use you in there PR department. Thank you very much, keep them coming.

Hi Sobhi,

No   .. I never get bored of these great compliments!

Quoting 777way (Reply 10): Nice report Roner, great pics as usual but minus that something LOL, hope you dont mind me ponting that out, did you change camera, lens or settings?

Thanks 777way!

I think you may be comparing with my Royal Brunei Trip Report, which was purely done with my fisheye lens  

Camera is still the same, and so are the settings. I am using more lenses for variety.

Quoting 777way (Reply 10): they used to give Godiva in the 90s, why not Lindtt or anything sophisticated, even After 8 would be more suited, guess they cant do much about the generic bevarges but munchies yes. I know it does the job and peole are happy with it, but not my style for F class, thumbs down on that EK.

They do hand out Godiva chocolates in Business Class on the A380 for sure.

But as for the nibblies, i kinda liked the generic idea. It also resembles what is offered in a hotel room, which to me seemed the general theme of the First Class suite.

Quoting Carfield (Reply 11): The airline is expanding too much and the airline just can't keep up with the consistency level of service being delivered by a multicultural crew.

Hi Carfield,

You are right. But also, in order to keep the crew, perhaps EK relaxes the rules a little. Etihad and Qatar are much more strict with their crew, and many end up leaving.

Quoting Carfield (Reply 11): QR has better F/As because it has a smaller base and a more sensible expansion policy.

True. QR also has more Asian crew, while EK has more of an International base. Asian crew working together is better than a larger and more multicultural group i believe.

Quoting egyptair269 (Reply 12): Another Masterpiece TR by Roni. When looking at the TR forum, I read your name before I even read the title!

Thanks egyptair269! Thanks for stopping by!

Quoting caleb1 (Reply 13): Once again Roni, another excellent offering! I felt as if I was a First Class passenger on that flight. Really fantastic job.

Thanks Caleb1!

Quoting Quokka (Reply 14): You could be right about the style in First being that you are left undisturbed. Unlike in Y or J, dining is on demand and can be ordered by phoning from your suite or pressing the service button. However a few pleasantries go a long way to making passengers feel welcome and allowing people to remain undisturbed does not mean being inattentive or cold.

Hi Quokka,

I totally agree. While i like the idea of being undisturbed, i still would appreciate those extra pleasantries. Which to me, Cathay is great at doing!

Quoting burj (Reply 15): So Emirates has time traveling limo service now?! That really is a great perk for first class passengers!

Hi burj!

LOL. You are the second one to spot this. My arrival time at DXB is supposed to be at 6:10am   My bad!

Quoting burj (Reply 15): Did you LIE down on the ground to take that? Anyone else I would doubt it...but you are so committed...perhaps you'd even go to those lengths to document your trip?

I didn't. But you bet i would if the situation calls for it   lol

Quoting burj (Reply 15): In the First class lounge...did each bar/cafe area have the SAME type of food? Or did different ones have different themes so you could pick an area based on the type of food you wanted?

There were differences. One focused on sweets, another on salty finger foods etc.

Quoting burj (Reply 15): So are you going to give us a teaser of what your next TR might be?

It will be an inaugural flight   ... Nothing we haven't seen before though.

Quoting ojas (Reply 16): Hi Roni, another spectacular TR!

Thanks Ojas!

Quoting ojas (Reply 16): Even if we analyse the lower scaled version of the QR's premium terminal, the curbside is very small when compared to the traffic passing between the premium terminal. Very less thought put for O-D passengers.

Very true!

Quoting ojas (Reply 16): Here is what I like about Changi, even during peak times, the airport does not seem that crowded when compared to the morning crowd of EK. Sure it is all about volume, but Changi seems to always keep that quiet environment even when flights to MAA, BOM, DEL, DAC are boarding.

Also, at Changi, SQ's activity is split between the terminals. Unlike everything EK at T3.

Quoting ojas (Reply 16): You just had to get Cathay in

Always!

Quoting flightsimboy (Reply 17): Another great report Roni, but the day I read a Qatar Airways trip report from you, I'll be very happy!!

Thanks flightsimboy!

Im sure QR will pop up eventually! haha.

Quoting flightsimboy (Reply 17): And Etihad still in her youth is grooming herself

And soon she will be wearing the outfits of others like V Australia  

Quoting flightsimboy (Reply 17): I could tell compared to your trip report on Etihad, Emirates was just short of compliments. Yes the cabin is awesome but as far as personal touches and service went, Etihad shone bright right from the start.

Absolutely! ..

Quoting flightsimboy (Reply 17): You came to Toronto? I guess since you already did a A380 J class report you didn't do another one?

LoL .. i love the instant assumption i flew in J   ... Believe it or not, i was traveling in Y  

Quoting flightsimboy (Reply 17): Was the bread and jams already laid out at each table?

No. A waiter brings the bread basket and the jams to you when you are seated at the table. Like a hotel!

Quoting flightsimboy (Reply 17): because quite frankly when the purser himself/herself is complacent, then what need for the others in the rank below need to worry about having to ensure top notch service.

That is very true! And a careless purser leads to an unbothered crew usually.

Quoting flightsimboy (Reply 17): Again, here is something that Emirates copied from Etihad. Etihad was the first to introduce their "Inspired Service" and if I am not mistaken it applies to their Business class cabins as well.

Well Emirates was the first in the GCC to introduce dine on demand in First Class. Etihad introduced this in J class, and Emirates is still toying with the idea.

Quoting flightsimboy (Reply 17): Well you were after all flying to a FIFA World Cup hosting nation

And also on a FIFA Partner airline too  

Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 18): what to say other than "excellent", "fantastic", "wonderful"? Thanks for taking so much time regularly to compose all that. You described well what makes EK so special - despite certain weaknesses.

Thanks PH  

Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 18): I simply don't like the excessive use of golden design elements. Less is more sometimes.

I agree!

Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 18): Ok, what will they do with it once the 787 finally enters into service?

I am sure EK's marketing department has a spin planned!

Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 18): Always nice to see "my first A380". But why is EK412 always late?

Well there is the curfew at Sydney and the flight needs to arrive only at a certain time. Then there also is a compliance scheme at Sydney, where a flight must land within a certain period of time of its approved slot without paying a fine. I think for this EK flight, if you land 30 minutes before of after your scheduled time, a fine will be charged.

Quoting Palmjet (Reply 20): loved your report and the lengths you go to for your pics - which are always great. had to chuckle when the cabin crew observed how many pics you were taking, including in the lav ! At least they left you to it, rather than making life difficult! thanks for posting this. I really enjoyed your TAAG report as well. P-jet

Thanks for yoru comments P-jet!

Quoting airpearl (Reply 21): Stunning, simply stunning. Roni, I think I've run out of fresh superlatives to describe your trip reports. Your uncanny ability to encapsulate a trip - any old trip really - and package it into the most amazing journey of discovery is without parallel.

Many thanks Mr. Airpearl  

Quoting airpearl (Reply 21): , the grudging comparisons with the other major Emirati airline is not a surprise, but hearing EY being referred to as a "rebellious girl" is a first. Give the kid a break, she's only seven after all

This definitely needs an airport transit self-connect initiative coffee-shop chat!  

Quoting airpearl (Reply 21): Haha... more cult than religion I presume

I can miss my flight looking at those FIDS!

Quoting airpearl (Reply 21): The First Class lounge is definitely far less crowded than the J class equivalent - they are both about the same size, aren't they?

I would think they are the same size.

Quoting TravelsUK (Reply 22): Thanks for a great TR Roni, hugely enjoyable as always! I still can't help but think that the EK suites are just a little bit tacky, all that gold a 'walnut veneer' a tad OTT in my opinion, the food service on the other hand looks very stylish. Cheers & thanks again! Nick

Thanks Travels UK.

I agree that the gold walnut theme needs a little toning down.

Quoting SR 103 (Reply 23): Everyone has already said great things about your trip report, no use in me repeating what they said as I am sure you know exactly how I feel about your reports by now.

Thank you Anosh  

Quoting SR 103 (Reply 23): One of those exist at JFK Terminal 4 too. I was there the other day.

But good old Schiphol had them since ages!  

Quoting SR 103 (Reply 23): How were these? I have to say they don't look all that appealing, did they actually cut out a lot of noise? I have had my pair of BOSE for years now. I can not find anything better and when you consider the fact that airlines such as Jet, Kingfisher and even American Airlines offer them to their premium passengers, I can't help but think there is room for improvement at EK.

Actually, i did not use them throughout the flight! .. But i am not so much an expert with noice cancelling sets. They actually feel a little 'weird' when i turn on the noise cancelling feature.

Quoting SR 103 (Reply 23): While the crumble looks delicious (though I am a sucker for anything sweet), the presentation looked extremely ordinary. The way my apple crumble was presented in J on QR was light years ahead of this EK F presentation.

Oh totally! .. Etihad and Qatar's meal presentations are great! Nothing to me beats that funky Business Class meal tray on EY!

Quoting SR 103 (Reply 23): There is a reason we both liked flying KLM back in our college days right?

Makes absolute sense  

Quoting ojas (Reply 24): As an aside I'm finally flying CX later this month after 13 years

I am still finding the fact that the name Ojas and the sentence 'flying CX' being used together, a little hard to digest  

Quoting MHTripple7 (Reply 25): And yet another awesome trip report from you, ronerone! Thank you!

Thanks MHTripple7! Glad you enjoyed

Quoting MHTripple7 (Reply 25): I must say the lounge in DXB looks AMAZING. That has to be the best premium lounge in world. I want to fly EK just to use that lounge.

It was the best part of the whole experience for sure!

Quoting MorcegoA330 (Reply 26): Hi Roni. Another great TR! I always enjoy reading your TRs and the pics are really great as well. Great attention to detail. Cheers, Ricardo

Thanks MorcegoA330! Glad you enjoyed  


Cheers,
Roni

Quoting sfflyer123 (Reply 27): Fantastic. This was a really excellent TR. I thoroughly enjoyed it very much. The photos were fantastic. It did, however, look like F was relatively empty. What was the load in F like?

Thanks sfflyer123.

I believe 5 of us were in F. It did not look like there were any op-ups as J wasn't full either. But i wasn't a revenue passenger, so this only leaves the family of 4 who were with me. Not sure what their situation was though.


Cheers,
Roni

Meant to ask this before....

The writing kit, that is that meant to be used on the plane only, or are you welcome to take it with you?

Same question about the vanity selection in the built in drawer... That is definitely the kind of stuff that I hope they do NOT reuse!

How hard would it be to "liberate" these items if they aren't meant to be "gifts"? (WHAT?! I'm just asking is all....I mean if they aren't going to give you an amenity kit!)

hi roni

gret report as always. When i flew EK suites, i was quite disappointed by the seat in the "bed" configuration, found it bumpy and with lots of little hard bits. What was your impression?

Also you must be one of the few to post an EK First TR that does not feature a picture of the caviar appetizer!!

take care

Great report and photos

Whenever I see such reports of First Class, etc, one thing comes to mind "Life is not fair"... and I'm not talking about myself. Life has been "fair" to me. I've been blessed, but whenever I see such lavish settings that cost a ton of money, I automatically think of those poor kids in Africa or elsewhere that can't afford food or medicine and some of us piss our money away instead of giving it to others. Trust me, I'm not here to criticize you. I probably fall in the same category, of "lucky westerners" who spend money on things they really don't need, instead of helping others.

Again, great report!

Quoting burj (Reply 30): The writing kit, that is that meant to be used on the plane only, or are you welcome to take it with you?

Quoting burj (Reply 30): Same question about the vanity selection in the built in drawer... That is definitely the kind of stuff that I hope they do NOT reuse!

Quoting burj (Reply 30): How hard would it be to "liberate" these items if they aren't meant to be "gifts"?

Anything is easy to liberate Burj  

I have liberated the 1st level giveaways such as the slippers, eyeshades, vanity kit etc in addition to the menu (but minus the 2nd level take-aways such as blankets, headsets etc)  


The writing kit was screaming my name to take her home to liberate her from the use and abuse of other passengers. But i was out of space! So she stayed!

Quoting concordechild (Reply 31): When i flew EK suites, i was quite disappointed by the seat in the "bed" configuration, found it bumpy and with lots of little hard bits. What was your impression?

Hi concordechild,

Which aircraft were you flying on? .. I found the EK suite very comfortable, and i cannot remember any bumpiness or hard bits.

Quoting concordechild (Reply 31): Also you must be one of the few to post an EK First TR that does not feature a picture of the caviar appetizer!!

Hmm ... What caviar appetizer? It was not even on the menu so it must have gotten the chops!

Quoting vio (Reply 32): Whenever I see such reports of First Class, etc, one thing comes to mind "Life is not fair"... and I'm not talking about myself. Life has been "fair" to me. I've been blessed, but whenever I see such lavish settings that cost a ton of money, I automatically think of those poor kids in Africa or elsewhere that can't afford food or medicine and some of us piss our money away instead of giving it to others. Trust me, I'm not here to criticize you. I probably fall in the same category, of "lucky westerners" who spend money on things they really don't need, instead of helping others.

Hi vio!

My mother always says this!

And you just had to mention it here, on a flight i took to 'Africa'   LOL


Cheers,
Roni

Quoting ronerone (Reply 33): Which aircraft were you flying on? .. I found the EK suite very comfortable, and i cannot remember any bumpiness or hard bits.

was an A340 out of zurich a couple of years back. Distinctively remember bumpy around mid back section and where the arm rests lowered. Strangely i flew back on another A340 which had very old style F seats (2-2-2 config) that did go virtually flat (leg rest extended out horizontally from the seat if i dont mistake and were obnoxiously wide) which i found more comfortable to sleep on.

They certainly had the caviar appetizer back then!!! had it bothways and forced wife to take the same!

P

Quoting ronerone (Reply 28): This definitely needs an airport transit self-connect initiative coffee-shop chat!

And from the sounds of your recent comments in Suryo's TR, could one be imminent with the Eid holidays coming up?  

I REALLY had to make time during my lunch break to chime in. And by golly, what a trip!

Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): Many still ponder whether this airline is fully subsidized or not, and perhaps many like to believe that it is. But don’t you think this is a little out of style by now?

A lot of these "accusations" come from the "old schooled" generation who were brought up on a diet of age old legacies and supposedly free market ideologies from the western world. But market trends and business models can CHANGE. Even more so for different regions some models might not even be applicable. EK and SQ were founded on the same roots, a successful 6th freedom carrier with very little focus on O&D traffic. I guess the more successful you are, the more sceptical the nay-sayers become in nit-picking.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): However, this forward thinking in the construction of this building comes very handy today as I can enjoy this spaciousness until things become more congested a few years down the line.

If it does become congested, they will build another ginormous terminal to house even more people!

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): As I was approaching the agent at the check-in counter, another fellow passenger travelling on one of Emirates' 100+ destinations today, figured he could cut through the queue and snag my turn.

It makes me wonder why do people think they can get away with such behaviour.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Minus the décor and the funky smells, for a moment I thought I was at the fish market on a Friday morning.

For this alone, it makes me want to visit Dubai's airport. LOL!

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Inside the Emirates First Class lounge at DXB

Look at the FOOD! You can have a feast before you even board the plane.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Sure enough, many airlines had subscribed to the 'no amenity kits in Business Class' club -and I am just beginning to adapt to this new concept- however since when was First Class on the chops too? Ouch!

After all the cut backs for steerage (JCL included), you would think they would have lavished a bit more on First Class to maintain the glam factor. But then again, these are challenging times we are in so I am not surprised EK has cut whatever they could.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): "Fair enough. Please enjoy your Canapé"

Looks like you got zapped by the Double Dutch Daisy. Was he nasty or perhaps I misread his tone?

Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Sure enough, this is the purser's job, but very little effort was made on addressing a passenger by name, or striking a meaningless conversation with a passenger about something that makes them feel like they are taken care of. It is one thing to be quite formal and professional, but today's style of service is about that extra personal touch.

As the lines between First and Business Class becomes blurred, a trade up or down is sometimes inevitable where applicable. In your case, it was probably the latter.

Once again, hats off to you for this amazing write up.

Another amazing trip report,Roni!

The lounge in DXB looks fantastic!

I'm a bit surprised that they gave you the menu after take off rather than on the gound. I prefer it earlier so I can think about what I will choose.

Nice to see that Emireates still offfers Dom Perignon which is clearly the best of all chanpagnes.

It seems a bit odd that they did not address you by name.......

Looking forward to your first trip report on Qatar Airways, when ever that may be  

The777Man

Hi again Roni,

Quoting ronerone (Reply 28): I think, EK can do away with the vseparate vanity kits, slippers, and eyeshades, and replace with a simple EK branded kit that contains a little bit of everything.

Agreed. Nothing beats posh airline branded amenity kit.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 28): I have about 4 batteries for my camera, and i try to have them all charged before i leave home. However, i have had to use the occasional power port here and there.

My partner and I brought along 4 batteries. Two each for the compact and the DSLR one.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 28): That is why you should try the EK A380

Well, I think I have figured out how my next journey may look like.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 28): Believe it or not, i was traveling in Y

Well, prove it!   

Quoting ronerone (Reply 29): But i wasn't a revenue passenger, so this only leaves the family of 4 who were with me

I hope the family did not take too much attention of the flight attendants. But I suppose not.

Cheers,
Suryo

Well Roni I finally got my internet back up after last nights storm as I told you. What can I say a truly fantastic report. You hold the place for TR King. The quality of the photos and enjoyable reading are second to none.

Really enjoyed all of this report. If EK could get the personal touch mastered then it would be a perfect product.

Thanks for the amazing report.

Philip

Damn, that was bloody good.  

Hi Roni,

A superb review of EK F, looks nice, food presentation looks excellent, though as you describe, lacks the finishing touch, true warmth and hospitality from the crew, something I seem to find the case on my flights with EK, EY & QR, seems common in my experience on these carriers, too much training?

So, if buying a ticket, is F on EK worth the fare difference over their J product?

I'm suprised there were so many seemingly empty seats, thought it would have been packed due to the ongoing World Cup.

Best Wishes

Mark

What an awesome TR! I loved reading it! Thanks also for the pics!

Dave

Quoting concordechild (Reply 34): was an A340 out of zurich a couple of years back. Distinctively remember bumpy around mid back section and where the arm rests lowered.

It could have been the older seats on the A345. I think an improvement was incorporated into the ones installed on the 77W's.

Quoting concordechild (Reply 34): Strangely i flew back on another A340 which had very old style F seats (2-2-2 config) that did go virtually flat (leg rest extended out horizontally from the seat if i dont mistake and were obnoxiously wide) which i found more comfortable to sleep on.

Now those are seats i want to try! This part of Emirates is quite rare on a.net!

Quoting airpearl (Reply 35): And from the sounds of your recent comments in Suryo's TR, could one be imminent with the Eid holidays coming up?

You know me too well man! ..

I'm Hari Raya-ing in the USA (hopefully!), but i am pondering a quick KUL trip soon. Will let you know!

Quoting ryanair!!! (Reply 36): I REALLY had to make time during my lunch break to chime in. And by golly, what a trip!

Hi Ryanair!!!

Welcome back my friend. You have been dearly missed  

Quoting ryanair!!! (Reply 36): I guess the more successful you are, the more sceptical the nay-sayers become in nit-picking.

That is so true!

Quoting ryanair!!! (Reply 36): If it does become congested, they will build another ginormous terminal to house even more people!

Well, a new concourse is currently in construction at DXB  

Quoting ryanair!!! (Reply 36): Was he nasty or perhaps I misread his tone?

Not at all. He was shy, and needed some time to adjust.

Quoting The777Man (Reply 37): Another amazing trip report,Roni!

Thanks The777Man! Glad you enjoyed.

Quoting The777Man (Reply 37): I'm a bit surprised that they gave you the menu after take off rather than on the gound. I prefer it earlier so I can think about what I will choose.

Yea, for a moment, i thought the menus havent been loaded on board when i realised i hadn't recieved one before takeoff.

Quoting akhmad (Reply 38): My partner and I brought along 4 batteries. Two each for the compact and the DSLR one.

Which DSLR do you have if you dont ind me asking?

Quoting akhmad (Reply 38): Well, prove it!

LOL. Here you go:

Quoting oa260 (Reply 39): Well Roni I finally got my internet back up after last nights storm as I told you.

Heya Phil!

Hope the storms weren't so bad!

Quoting oa260 (Reply 39): What can I say a truly fantastic report. You hold the place for TR King. The quality of the photos and enjoyable reading are second to none.

Thank you for your kind words!

Quoting oa260 (Reply 39): If EK could get the personal touch mastered then it would be a perfect product.

Definitely. Would be nice to use EK's ground services and fly EY under one ticket  

Quoting readytotaxi (Reply 40): Damn, that was bloody good.

LOL. Thanks readytotaxi  

Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 41): A superb review of EK F, looks nice, food presentation looks excellent, though as you describe, lacks the finishing touch, true warmth and hospitality from the crew, something I seem to find the case on my flights with EK, EY & QR, seems common in my experience on these carriers, too much training?

Thanks Mark!

I think our EK A380 inaugural flight was EK on a VERY good day (minus the crew's first flight jitters and all).

I think it is too little training (or enforcement rather) on some, and too much enforcement on others,

Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 41): So, if buying a ticket, is F on EK worth the fare difference over their J product?

I think F is most worthit on an Asian airline (maybe also some major European legacies that have been around for long enough). Other than that, i would stick to J if its premium.

Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 41): I'm suprised there were so many seemingly empty seats, thought it would have been packed due to the ongoing World Cup.

I was surprised at that too. Maybe they were running full on other flights during the day that connected with certain destinations or something.

Quoting davescj (Reply 42): What an awesome TR! I loved reading it! Thanks also for the pics!

Thanks davescj! Glad you enjoyed  


Cheers,
Roni

Quoting ronerone (Reply 43): Now those are seats i want to try! This part of Emirates is quite rare on a.net!

will try and dig for some photos which i am sure i took.

P

Quoting ronerone (Reply 43): Which DSLR do you have if you dont ind me asking?

We have got the Nikon D90.

Quoting ronerone (Reply 43): LOL. Here you go:

I believe you, Roni.  

Thanks for the report on FCL at EK. I think you have summarized the essense of both the EK service, as well as it's business game plan. It seems your comments mirror my recent experience(s) with the airline. I am not surprised that Mladen was so off-color. As I have maintained, anything they can buy, EK has done well ... when it comes to the warmth, there are plenty of better options out there.

I haven't tried their FCL product - but perhaps can do it on the 380 next week - let's see if I can get a competitive priced MRU-DXB-LHR-GRU.

Saludos,
A.

Hi Roni ... as always a fantastic TR. I am flying EK412 to AKL next week so I will be curious to see if it is late...surely hope not! Again a brilliant report.

Cheers,
Liam

Wow,quite an amazing TR. Very well done!

You deserve every compliment that you get, amazing stuff once again! Dubai Airport has such an energy and your pictures capture it so well, I can't wait to go back to Dubai again just for the airport. Emirates is so far advanced in the hardware department that i'm sure most people would take that over other airline's 'better software'. Having said that I just flew EK yesterday in Y class CHC-SYD and I couldn't fault anything, not the service or food. When they get everything right they are a great airline.

Can't wait for your next report!