Emirates SkyCargo boosts air freight for exporters in the Philippines

“East and Southeast Asia are not just anchors of our global network – they are shaping the future of global logistics, and global trade. From cutting-edge manufacturing hubs to high-growth consumer markets, the region drives the pace of trade. Our strategic growth strategy and continued investment in East Asia and Southeast Asia reflects this as we remain laser-focused on building the capacity, routes and partnerships to best serve the exponential demand.” ~Abdulla Alkhallafi, Vice President of Cargo Commercial, Far East and Australasia

With the launch of passenger services to Hangzhou, China, Emirates SkyCargo, the world's largest international airline's cargo subsidiary, now offers more than 21,000 tons of cargo capacity weekly to and from East and Southeast Asia. Emirates SkyCargo now has the most extensive and diverse route network of any non-Asian airline, with 25 gateways spread over 12 countries and territories. This helps Philippine businesses interact with customers and suppliers worldwide.

With their thriving economies, East and Southeast Asia, frequently known as the "factory of the world," rely heavily on air freight capacity to move goods around the globe. Emirates SkyCargo provides service to nine gateways in the region with 44 weekly specialized cargo aircraft. This schedule is supplemented by 13 weekly charter services to and from East Asia, providing consistent capacity and reliable connection for Asian businesses conducting business with Europe and the Middle East.   In support of freighter and charter operations, 311 weekly passenger flights—a mix of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s—transport both passengers and cargo.

With this high-frequency flight schedule, an Emirates aircraft takes off from East or Southeast Asia about every 30 minutes. 

Fostering Philippine Economic Growth 

East and Southeast Asia have long been significant markets for Emirates SkyCargo's global network, with a thriving agricultural industry and a reputation as a global hub for innovation, e-commerce, and innovative manufacturing. 

In the Philippines, Emirates SkyCargo promotes exports in several key sectors, including electronics, clothing, fresh produce (including seafood and tropical fruits), pharmaceuticals, and the quickly growing e-commerce shipments.   All cargo is efficiently transported to and from the country in the bellyhold of 32 weekly passenger aircraft, providing essential capacity and providing businesses with reliable and rapid access to global markets.  

In 2024–2025, Emirates SkyCargo hoisted more than 14,395 tonnes of cargo from the Philippines.

The "Aerial Silk Road," a system of air routes, logistics hubs, and aviation infrastructure that is modeled after the old overland and maritime Silk Roads, enables quick and efficient access to global markets.   Emirates SkyCargo's vast network of over 145 destinations puts them in a prime position to facilitate international trade.   In fact, by offering reliable and fast connectivity to more than 50 participating countries, Emirates SkyCargo makes a substantial contribution to China's Belt and Road Initiative.

Expanding Reach and Setting Industry Milestones 

To further expand trade via Dubai between Southeast Asia and the rest of the world, Emirates SkyCargo has partnered with Teleport, AirAsia's only cargo partner, in addition to its own extensive network.   By using the more than 100 airports in the region, exporters can expand their capacity, flexibility, and market reach thanks to this arrangement.   It also improves relations between Southeast Asia and Europe, Canada, and the United States.

Since it began operating in East Asia, Emirates has set important industry norms.   When Emirates SkyCargo launched freighter flights between Dubai and Shanghai in September 2002, eighteen months before passenger operations, it created the first direct air link between the Middle East and the Chinese mainland.   In keeping with this leadership, Emirates SkyCargo began offering a weekly freighter service between the Middle East and Japan's Narita International Airport in 2025, marking the first scheduled freighter service on this route.   Large or uncommon items, such as industrial parts, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductor components are all transported on this trip. 

As Emirates proceeds with its 10-year growth strategy, the Philippines and other East and Southeast Asian nations remain priority markets.   The airline will increase its fleet and provide additional flights to meet growing demand and enhance connectivity, strengthening global supply chains and supporting economic growth.

Emirates invests US$ 135 million in new pilot training center

"This US$ 135 million investment to build a new pilot training center will ensure Emirates' readiness to commence its pilot training ahead of the delivery of its new aircraft fleet starting from 2024. The building will be equipped with the latest, technologically advanced simulators to provide the best training for pilots, while using solar power to reduce energy consumption." ~His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive Emirates Airline and Group

Emirates invests US$ 135 million in new pilot training center

• An advanced facility with Full Flight Simulator Bays (FFS) for Emirates’ new Airbus A350 and Boeing 777X fleet
• When ready in 2024, new facility will have the potential to expand Emirates’ pilot training capacity by 54% annually

For its upcoming Airbus A350 and Boeing 777X aircraft, Emirates will soon construct an advanced training facility that can accommodate six Full Flight Simulator Bays (FFS). The new 63,318 square foot ft. facility will open in March 2024.

The existing Emirates Training Facilities in Dubai, which will be adjacent to the new building, will provide excellent integration and be conveniently located near all other pilot training centers.

 

As part of the pilot training module, pilot trainees will also be able to set up and configure the cockpit environment with specialized devices and upload the data to the Full Flight Simulator (FFS) prior to beginning their training session. This novel, first-of-its-kind idea aims to shorten the trainee's preparation time in the simulator, assist them in maintaining focus, and maximize the training time.

 

Emirates has the potential to increase its annual pilot training capacity by 54% by adding the new building to its existing Dubai training colleges. With 17 full flight simulator bays that can accommodate more than 130,000 training hours per year, Emirates' pilots will have more flexibility and facilities to improve their flying skills across the airline's training buildings.

 

Emirates' newest training college will begin instructing its first A350 pilots by June 2024, in accordance with the scheduled delivery of the airline's first Airbus A350 aircraft.

 

The airline provides a variety of world-class training and development programs for its workforce and other aviation professionals in addition to cutting-edge training facilities for its flight deck crew. These are found in Dubai: the Emirates Flight Training Academy for cadets, the Emirates Aviation University, the Emirates Cabin Crew Training Centre, and numerous programs designed specifically for various employee groups.

Emirates opens a humanitarian airbridge to get emergency aid to Turkey-Syria earthquake victims

"We stand with the Turkish and Syrian people and are working with experts like the International Humanitarian City to help provide urgent relief to those affected and displaced by the earthquakes, as well as support the complex recovery efforts on the ground. Emirates has extensive experience in supporting humanitarian relief efforts, and through its three daily flights to Istanbul will offer regular and consistent widebody capacity for relief items and medical supplies. Emirates also supports the UAE’s ongoing humanitarian efforts to support Turkey and Syria, and Dubai’s unique position as the world’s largest international aid logistics hub means that we can efficiently reach disaster stricken areas and the most vulnerable people as quickly as possible." ~HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates’ Chairman and Chief Executive

Emirates launches humanitarian airbridge to transport emergency aid to victims of the Turkey-Syria earthquake

• In coordination with International Humanitarian City (IHC), flights are planned to carry around 100 tonnes of urgent relief items like blankets, tents, medical supplies and other humanitarian goods
• Emergency aid on flights from Dubai to Istanbul will make their way to earthquake stricken sites in southern Turkey and hard-hit cities in Syria

Emirates is establishing an airbridge with the International Humanitarian City (IHC) in response to the devastating earthquakes that occurred in Turkey and Syria. This will allow Emirates to support on-the-ground aid efforts and search-and-rescue efforts in both countries by transporting urgent supplies, medical supplies, and equipment. The World Health Organization (WHO) and World Food Programme (WFP) relief cargo of medical kits and shelter items, coordinated by the IHC in Dubai, will follow today's EK 121 and EK 117 shipments of high thermal blankets and family tents from UNHCR.

 

More blankets, tents, shelter kits, flash lights, water distribution ramps, trauma and emergency health kits, and flash lights will be transported on Emirates in the coming days.

 

Over the next two weeks, Emirates SkyCargo intends to dedicate cargo space on its daily flights to Istanbul for approximately 100 tons of humanitarian aid. Local organizations will then deliver the critical supplies for an emergency carried by Emirates to affected areas in northern Syria and southern Turkey, assisting on-the-ground responders and providing much-needed assistance to the hundreds of thousands of people affected by the earthquakes.

Emirates launches humanitarian airbridge to transport emergency aid to victims of the Turkey-Syria earthquake

“The IHC remains committed to providing the people affected by the earthquakes with the humanitarian support and resources they need. We are taking urgent action by facilitating airlifts of vital medical supplies, shelter items and other relief goods from the UNHCR, World Health Organization (WHO) and World Food Programme (WFP) to address the pressing demand for aid in the affected regions.” ~His Excellency Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Chairman of the Supreme Committee for the Supervision of IHC

Emirates' long-standing partnership with the International Humanitarian Committee (IHC) enables the airline to swiftly and effectively lead numerous relief missions, delivering humanitarian aid to communities affected by natural disasters, medical emergencies, global outbreaks, and other crises.

 

In 2020, following the explosions at the Port of Beirut, the airline helped with relief efforts in Lebanon. Emirates built a humanitarian airbridge in 2021 between Dubai and India to help India contain the COVID-19 outbreak and transport urgent medical supplies and aid. In order to transport essential supplies and equipment directly to five flood-ravaged Pakistani cities last year, the airline offered cargo capacity to organizations working with the IHC. 

 

Together with the Airbus Foundation, Emirates has also supported humanitarian flights over the years. Since 2013, Emirates A380 ferry flights have brought more than 120 tons of food and essential emergency supplies to those in need.

Having a taste of the stars at 40,000 feet, only with Emirates

At the moment, Emirates is the only commercial airline in the world that offers official onboard service for Mot & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Dom Pérignon. Emirates is the only international airline offering a "taste of the stars" to passengers, inviting them to experience the sparkling sensations of the world's most outstanding champagnes at 40,000 feet. Global airline exclusive agreements are in place until 2024.

 

Emirates passengers continue to be well-served onboard with the finest selection of bubbles available, ready to toast the holiday season, special occasions, and the hope and promise of a new year, despite the well-documented global shortage of champagne caused by harsh weather and a reduced harvest in 2021, pandemic supply chain issues, and an explosion in demand for champagne worldwide.

 

Dom Pérignon is served in First Class on all Emirates flights, Veuve Clicquot in Business Class on flights to the Americas, the UK, and Europe, and Mot & Chandon in Business Class on flights to Africa, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific, including Australasia. Mot & Chandon can also be purchased onboard by Economy Class passengers.

 

Celebrating special moments in the sky, Emirates passengers have enjoyed Moët Hennessy Champagnes onboard for over 30 years. The ‘perfect serve’ is offered as each champagne is delicately presented by highly trained cabin crew, at the perfect temperature, in a unique champagne glass providing an unforgettable experience.

 

There are many ways to enjoy champagne with Emirates, whether in your seat or at the onboard lounge of an A380. Economy passengers can also bring an extra sparkle to special occasions onboard by pre-booking a cake and champagne package. For US$43, cabin crew will surprise a passenger onboard with a mini celebration – including a luscious vanilla cake or decadent chocolate cake paired with Moët & Chandon Brut 20cl.

Passengers can also enjoy champagne in Emirates Lounges in Dubai and across the globe before they board their flight. In Dubai, the Emirates Business Class Lounge in Concourse B even has a unique Moët & Chandon Champagne Lounge, where each iconic cuvée is matched with mouth-watering canapés, created by Michelin-starred chefs. Passengers can learn more about the process of making champagne and Emirates collection on the Emirates Wine Channel, or speak to Emirates cabin crew who are provided with food pairing and technical notes for each champagne.

 

Providing the highest level of luxury and quality is imperative to Emirates’ promise of ‘fly better.’ For the last 16 years, Emirates has invested more than $1 billion into its wine program, buying exceptional wines and champagnes at the earliest opportunity, to let some of the wines mature allowing them to express their full potential before serving them on board.

Champagne Fun Facts from Emirates

1. Champagne comes from the north-eastern corner of France, the Champagne region, where winemaking dates back to the 17th century and vineyards span more than 84,000 acres across Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne, Côte des Blancs, Côte de Sézanne and The Aube.
2. Emirates purchases more champagne than any other airline in the world.
3. Champagne gets its sparkle from being twice fermented in the bottle over prolonged periods of time, via a labor-intensive practice often referred to as méthode traditionnelle or méthode Champenoise.
4. Emirates is the number 1 global partner in the world of Dom Pérignon and has a 30-year history of serving the iconic champagne onboard.
5. Contrary to popular belief, a champagne cork should not be ‘popped.’ If it pops, it could indicate that the champagne is too warm or too young. Instead, champagne corks should be gently released, eliciting a soft hiss.
6. Legend has it that when Dom Pérignon first created his delicious bubbly champagne, he called out to his fellow monks "Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!"
7. The color of the champagne gives clues to its age - younger champagnes tend to be pale yellow, while older ones have a straw hue. Younger champagnes are also much clearer, while more mature champagnes have less clarity. Older champagnes also have fewer bubbles, which move at a slower pace.
8. Emirates will often serve exclusive vintages and plenitudes onboard, offering First Class passengers an opportunity to taste exceptionally rare champagne. Business Class passengers will also get the chance to occasionally try a special vintage of Moët & Chandon or Veuve Clicquot, or perhaps a special rosé. Passengers can find out what is being served on their flight in advance by checking the Emirates website.

Download ‘Tasting Notes - Enjoy the world’s best Champagne onboard Emirates’ for more information. 

Emirates and Air Canada Form Strategic Partnership

“This is a significant partnership that will enable our customers access to even more destinations in Canada and the Americas, via our Toronto and US gateways. It also opens up many new route combinations for travelers across Emirates’ and Air Canada’s extensive networks in the Americas, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. We are pleased to partner with Air Canada, one of North America’s most established airlines and Canada’s flag carrier and we look forward to jointly progressing on various areas to provide even better customer flight choices and experiences.” ~Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline

Emirates and Air Canada announced the signing of a strategic partnership agreement that will create more options for customers when traveling on the carriers’ networks while also enhancing the customer experience throughout the journey.

Emirates and Air Canada intend to establish a codeshare relationship later in 2022 that will offer enhanced consumer travel choices for Air Canada customers to travel to the United Arab Emirates and to destinations beyond Dubai. Emirates customers will also enjoy an enhanced travel experience when travelling to Toronto or to key destinations across the Air Canada network. Customers will have the ability to book connecting travel between both airlines’ networks with the ease of a single ticket, seamless connectivity at the carriers’ respective global hubs and baggage transfers to their final destinations. 

"As we continue pursuing our strategy of expanding our global reach in response to growing opportunities in VFR markets (Visit Friends and Relatives) that serve Canada’s large multicultural communities, we are very pleased to form a strategic partnership with Emirates, a highly respected flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates with a hub in the vibrant city of Dubai. This strategic agreement will create network synergies, and Air Canada customers will have additional, convenient options when traveling between Canada and the United Arab Emirates as well as destinations beyond Dubai. We look forward to introducing Air Canada codeshare service on key Emirates flights, as well as adding the EK code on select Air Canada flights, and welcoming Emirates customers on our services later this year." ~Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive Officer at Air Canada

To further enhance the customer experience, the carriers will also establish reciprocal frequent flyer benefits and reciprocal lounge access for qualifying customers. Further details of the partnership and specific codeshare routes will be announced when finalized and will be subject to regulatory approvals and final documentation.

Air Canada Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Air Canada's public communications may include forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements may involve, but are not limited to, comments relating to guidance, strategies, expectations, planned operations or future actions. Forward-looking statements, by their nature, are based on assumptions, are subject to important risks and uncertainties and cannot be relied upon due to, amongst other things, changing external events and general uncertainties of the business. Actual results may differ materially from results indicated in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including the factors identified in this news release and in Air Canada's public disclosure file available at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release represent Air Canada's expectations as of the date of this news release and are subject to change after such date. However, Air Canada disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations.

About Emirates

Emirates is the award-winning global airline that serves over 130 cities on six continents through its efficient hub in Dubai. It operates the world’s largest fleet of modern wide-body Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft that are fitted out with the latest comforts in the sky. Emirates has won numerous accolades for excellence across its operations, including being named World Class Airline at The APEX Official Airline Ratings™ awards, which stands at the pinnacle of all APEX Passenger Choice awards, and being rated Five Star Airline by APEX.

For more information visit: www.emirates.com  

About Air Canada 

Air Canada is Canada's largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world's most comprehensive air transportation network celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2022. Air Canada provides scheduled passenger service directly to 51 airports in Canada, 51 in the United States and 86 internationally. It is the only international network carrier in North America to receive a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax, which in 2021 gave Air Canada awards for the Best Airline Staff in North America, Best Airline Staff in Canada, Best Business Class Lounge in North America, and an excellence award for managing COVID-19. Through its leading travel loyalty Aeroplan program, Air Canada offers the ability to earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental rewards. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger flights and cargo-only flights with its fleet of Boeing 767-300 freighters. Air Canada has committed to a net zero emissions goal from all global operations by 2050. 

Emirates and Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve’s efforts to restore and preserve fragile desert ecosystems

Emirates and Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve’s efforts to restore and preserve fragile desert ecosystems

For almost 20 years, Emirates has helped support a sustainable and balanced ecosystem at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) through an ongoing investment of over AED 28 million (USD $7.6 million). The funding has helped to preserve Dubai’s unique desert environment that is teeming with indigenous flora and fauna of all shapes and sizes, and has helped to raise awareness about the abundant natural beauty found in the UAE’s terrestrial ecosystems.

DDCR is a 225 square kilometer conservation reserve, and represents close to 5% of Dubai’s total land area - the biggest piece of land which Dubai has dedicated to a single project. The reserve protects the incredible wildlife and resilient vegetation within the vibrant UAE ecosystem, and today houses over 560 different species and 31,000 native trees. Over 29,000 of those trees are now sustainable without irrigation, like the native Ghaf tree (Prosopis cineraria), which has roots that can go down to 30 meters, enabling it to reach the water table in the DDCR.

Emirates and Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve’s efforts to restore and preserve fragile desert ecosystems

While many may think that the desert’s harsh, ever-changing habitat is barren of wildlife or vegetation, the collective efforts of Emirates and the DDCR have enabled many species to survive and thrive, and the reserve has become a showcase to some of the most important desert conservation accomplishments over recent years. Here are just some of the animals that have benefited from these conservation efforts:

• Over 1,300 Sand gazelles, Arabian gazelles and Arabian Oryx are thriving: Starting from just 230 vulnerable ungulates, these species have steadily grown since DDCR’s reintroduction and breeding program started, contributing to the objective of natural, sustainable development of free-roaming mammal populations that contribute to the health of the overall eco-system. Another 171 Arabian Oryx have been relocated to other protected areas in the UAE.

Emirates and Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve’s efforts to restore and preserve fragile desert ecosystems

Emirates and Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve’s efforts to restore and preserve fragile desert ecosystems

Emirates and Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve’s efforts to restore and preserve fragile desert ecosystems

• Birdlife is flourishing: Over 2,800 Houbara, or Macqueen’s Bustard, have been reintroduced into the DDCR since 2010, with the birds freely moving in and out of the reserve. A healthy population of the Pharaoh eagle-owl also resides in the DDCR, and natural breeding at the south of the reserve will soon see owlets flying out and about. The reserve has also been an important feeding site for the endangered lapped-face vulture, and numerous visits have been recorded for the Cinereous Vulture, a rare visitor to the UAE.

Emirates and Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve’s efforts to restore and preserve fragile desert ecosystems

Emirates and Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve’s efforts to restore and preserve fragile desert ecosystems

Emirates and Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve’s efforts to restore and preserve fragile desert ecosystems

• The diversity of species at DDCR has more than doubled: Careful protected area management, along with promoting natural processes have helped to re-wild the desert habitat. In 2003, DDCR’s list of species consisted of approximately 150. Today, the conservation reserve boasts over 560 species of plants and trees, birds, mammals, reptiles and arthropods. 

DDCR has also become a center for sustainable tourism, with authentic desert experiences in store and a careful selection of activities that do not undermine the natural habitats of the local flora and fauna.  DDCR runs a strict ‘Approved Excursion’ accreditation process for tour operators, who undergo specialized training to get acquainted with the reserve’s flora, fauna and sustainable practices to protect the desert’s ecosystem.

Emirates and Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve’s efforts to restore and preserve fragile desert ecosystems

More than 125,000 visitors made their way to the DDCR in 2021, and plans are underway for a Visitor’s Centre at the reserve to enhance the visitor experience and will also be used as a platform to develop educational programs for schools and higher educational institutions.

 

Emirates also supports the protection of Australia’s wilderness and bush through the conservation based Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, located in the World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains region.

 

The airline is also actively involved in the fight against illegal wildlife trafficking and exploitation, and is a member of the United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce, and is also a partner of ROUTES (Reducing Opportunities for Unlawful Transport of Endangered Species). Its freight arm, Emirates SkyCargo, has adopted a zero tolerance policy on illegal wildlife trade which includes big cats, elephants, rhinos and pangolins, among other types of wildlife, and has implemented a complete ban on hunting trophies.

Emirates and TAP Air Portugal sign MOU to expand strategic codeshare partnership

“Emirates and TAP Air Portugal have enjoyed a mutually successful codeshare partnership for the past eight years. We are delighted to expand this relationship and look forward to delivering even more benefits to our customers.” ~Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Chief Commercial Officer

Emirates and TAP Air Portugal have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand the codeshare partnership currently in place between both airlines. The new agreement will see customers of both airlines benefit from seamless connectivity on many new routes across the Americas, North Africa, and East Asia. Emirates and TAP Air Portugal will also explore ways to enhance the co-operation on their respective frequent flyer programmes including reciprocal earning and redemption opportunities and popular benefits.

Under the expanded partnership, TAP Air Portugal will place its code on Emirates’ flights to popular East Asia destinations such as Taipei, Tokyo, Osaka, Mumbai, Delhi, Dhaka, Male, Jakarta, Denpasar, Manila, Hanoi, as well as Barcelona and Mexico City.

In addition, both airlines plan on supporting each other’s stopover programmes in Dubai and Lisbon, with Emirates also supporting TAP Air Portugal as it looks at potential expansion opportunities in the UAE.

Subject to required regulatory approvals, the expanded agreement is expected to come into effect from May 1, 2021, and will provide customers with seamless booking, ticketing, and travel benefits across 70 destinations on both airlines’ networks.

“TAP Air Portugal is pleased to enhance our Emirates partnership, allowing our guests greater geographic access. We look forward to taking Emirates customers to more cities within Portugal, to our destinations in the Americas and North Africa, and for them to benefit from our Stopover Portugal program.” ~Arik De, TAP Air Portugal’s Chief Revenue & Network Officer

Under the expanded partnership, TAP Air Portugal will place its code on Emirates’ flights to popular East Asia destinations such as Taipei, Tokyo, Osaka, Mumbai, Delhi, Dhaka, Male, Jakarta, Denpasar, Manila, Hanoi, as well as Barcelona and Mexico City.

Emirates customers will be able to seamlessly access additional domestic destinations in Portugal, as well as TAP Air Portugal’s flights to cities in the USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea-Conakry, Morocco, Tunisia, Gambia, and Cape Verde.

Emirates operates first flight serviced by fully vaccinated frontline teams

“Our operational workforce are at the aviation frontline, helping people get to where they need to be, and moving essential goods to global communities. Protecting our people with vaccinations is important – for them, for our community, for the smooth running of our operations, and also for our customers as it introduces of an additional layer of protection when they travel with us. We’ve seen a very positive response with high demand and take-up of the Covid-19 vaccine from our colleagues at the operational frontline, and there’s continued momentum in the rate of vaccinations across the business. We would like to thank the UAE’s leadership for making three types of vaccines available in the country, and for their proactive commitment to championing an extensive National Vaccination Programme. At the outset of the pandemic, Emirates implemented robust safety measures to protect and prioritize the safety of our customers and employees at all stages of the travel journey, and with the rapid progress of our own vaccination program and high rates of take-up, more of our flights will soon be operating with fully vaccinated frontline employees. We are also confident that with more people being vaccinated, combined with strong safety measures in place, we can all look forward to the easing of border entry guidelines for many countries.” ~Adel Al Redha, Chief Operating Officer, Emirates Airline

Safety above all, always: Emirates operates first flight serviced by fully vaccinated frontline teams across all customer touchpoints. EK215 to Los Angeles supported by over 70 vaccinated frontline team members across the operational spectrum. Close to 26,000 of Emirates Group’s frontline aviation workforce already vaccinated with two doses.

Honoring its commitment to the health and safety of its employees and customers, Emirates today has become among the first airlines in the world to operate a flight with fully vaccinated frontline teams servicing customers at every touchpoint of the travel journey.

Yesterday morning, the full airport and onboard customer experience for flight EK215, which departed Dubai at 8:30 AM for Los Angeles, was safely supported by check-in, security, Business, and First Class lounge and boarding gate employees, as well as engineers, pilots, and cabin crew who made the choice to be fully vaccinated.

Also supporting the flight’s operations were fully vaccinated aircraft appearance, loading and special handling teams from dnata, as well as SkyCargo teams working on the cargo and logistics requirements for EK215.

The Emirates Group rolled out its vaccination drive at a pace just over a month ago, and since then, close to 26,000, or 44%, of the Group’s UAE frontline aviation workforce, have received both doses of either the Pfizer-BioNTech or Sinopharm vaccines.

Nearly 5,000 Cabin and Flight Deck Crew have opted to receive both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine. In addition, thousands more Emirates Group employees in other roles have taken their COVID-19 vaccine through the company’s clinics and vaccination centers, while others have opted to take their vaccine at one of the many vaccination centers across the UAE.

The Emirates Group vaccination program is the latest in its series of safeguards and protections to deliver on its health and safety promises to its customers, employees, and the communities it serves around the world. The Group’s vaccination centers have been running 12 hours a day, every day of the week to prioritize and provide aviation frontliners with the vaccine.

The UAE currently has one of the world’s highest rate of vaccinations for its citizens and residents as it fights to curb the spread of Covid-19. So far, the UAE has administered over 5.4 million doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, and Our World In Data, a research website based at Oxford University, recently reported that the country’s distribution rate stands at 55.27 doses per 100 people, ranking it the second-highest in the world.

Emirates crowned Best Airline and Best Long-Haul Airline at Leading UK Travel Awards 2020

Emirates crowned Best Airline and Best Long-Haul Airline at Leading UK Travel Awards 2020. Emirates has been recognized as the Best Airline for 2020 at The Sun Travel Awards, and the Best Long-Haul Airline at The Times and The Sunday Times Travel Awards.

Following an unprecedented year for travel, hundreds of thousands of votes were cast by readers looking to celebrate the best in the industry. Emirates' range of world-class products and services onboard its modern, wide-body aircraft helped to secure the award wins, with passengers able to enjoy over 4,500 channels of entertainment on ice – the airline's award-winning inflight entertainment system – as well as regionally inspired meals and complimentary beverages.

The award wins come as Emirates continues to safely resume operations and rebuild its network to provide more opportunities for travel, connecting customers to more than 95 destinations via Dubai.

The wins underscore Emirates' commitment to offering a better and safer customer experience in the air and on the ground across every class of travel. Emirates has re-introduced its iconic A380 products and onboard experiences, including the Onboard Lounge and Shower Spa, as well as social areas in Business Class and First Class on select Boeing 777- 300ER aircraft following a thorough review and the implementation of additional health and safety measures.

Emirates has recently rated the safest airline in the world in its response to the COVID-19 Pandemic according to the Safe Travel Barometer. It topped the ranks with a 'Safe Travel Score' of 4.4 out of 5.0 among 230+ airlines evaluated worldwide. The airline has set industry-leading safety standards at every step of the customer journey, including the distribution of hygiene kits, personal protective equipment for cabin crew, and enhanced cleaning procedures including the disinfection of aircraft lavatories every 45 minutes on flights longer than 1.5 hours.

Customers can stopover or travel to Dubai this winter as the city is open for international business and leisure visitors. From eclectic landmarks, pristine beaches, and world-class shopping malls – the city remains one of the most popular global destinations.

Emirates is committed to World Environment Day

Emirates has helped protect flora and fauna for over 10 years at Emirates Wolgan Valley, the conservation-based resort in New South Wales, Australia.

Emirates’ 20-year partnership with the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) continued to build on its successful programs to track, maintain and reintroduce native wildlife species, such as the Arabian oryx, Arabian gazelle, sand gazelle. While people around the planet continue to grapple with the pandemic, there’s also a call to pause and reflect on another cause – Time for Nature, the theme of the United Nation’s World Environment Day on 5 June.

Emirates is acutely aware of its role in the planet’s natural ecosystem and has continued to make progress in the attainment of its environmental goals. The airline showcased this environment performance in its annual financial report for 2019-20, painting a holistic picture and filling in the context of its achievements.

An important cause close to Emirates’ heart is keeping wildlife in the wild. The airline is committed to tackling the illegal trade in the sale of wild animals either as pets, or for their hides, tusks, or other body parts for use in food, medicine, exotic leathers, jewelry, and ornaments – all worth around US$ 20 billion every year.

Emirates’ 20-year partnership with the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve helps track, maintain, and reintroduces native wildlife species, such as the Arabian oryx, Arabian gazelle, sand gazelle.

Emirates has a zero-tolerance for carrying banned species, hunting trophies, or any products associated with illegal wildlife activities. The airline’s ground-handling team is trained in the International Air Transport Association’s Live Animal Regulations and its internal policies, and more than 2,500 airport services employees were trained last year to recognize and report suspicious cargo. Employees have access to a dedicated reporting channel to stop the illegal trade. Customer awareness was heightened through interviews, wildlife programs and films on Emirates’ inflight entertainment system, and its inflight magazine.

Emirates’ efforts in the areas of wildlife conservation are well-known. The airline has been helping protect Australia’s extraordinary flora and fauna for over 10 years at Emirates Wolgan Valley, the conservation-based resort in New South Wales. The resort worked closely with the local community to evacuate on-site animals as bushfires swept across the country last year. Involving guests who were keen to volunteer, the resort created a one million-plus seed bank, representing 25 local native species that will play a vital role in repopulating damaged areas. Native wildlife like kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, reptiles, and birdlife have already returned to the area.

In January, the reserve released 250 MacQueen’s bustards into its natural habitat – a remarkable achievement by any standard. The DDCR continues to be a regional leader in ecological research, actively collaborating with local and international universities. The reserve was accepted as a candidate for the International Union for Conservation of Nature Green List for Protected and Conserved Areas, a global standard for the world’s most effectively managed of protected areas, in 2018.

Reducing carbon emissions is central to Emirates’ environmental sustainability strategy, which is underpinned by its young, technologically advanced fleet with an average age of just 6.8 years. The airline’s comprehensive fuel efficiency program, which analyzes and implements ways to reduce unnecessary fuel burn and emissions wherever operationally feasible, delivered a 1.9% improvement in passenger fuel efficiency for the full year. The airline’s efforts to optimize flight plans and fuel uplift, while ensuring safety and operational integrity, alone saved an estimated 38,000 tonnes of fuel or around 120,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. This was supported by data-driven methodologies and awareness programs for pilots. 

Emirates is committed to environmental stewardship and uses the power of collaboration, consensus, and change right along with its ecosystem – from framing internal policies to empowering employees and mandating standards with partners and vendors. Last year, the Emirates Group’s leadership team approved an updated Environmental Framework, and throughout the year, the airline took positive action, both big and small, to make impressive progress.

For more information on Emirates’ environmental performance, click this link https://cdn.ek.aero/downloads/ek/pdfs/report/annual_report_2020.pdf.

Emirates is active across industry and international efforts and is part of United for Wildlife, ROUTES (Reducing Opportunities for Unlawful Transport of Endangered Species), and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).