Emirates explores First Class for A350-1000

Dhaka: Emirates is considering introducing a first-class cabin on the Airbus A350-1000, with airline President Sir Tim Clark revealing that preliminary designs have already been discussed with Airbus.

The Dubai-based carrier currently operates the smaller A350-900 with business class as its highest cabin category. Its first-class offering is available on selected Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft.

Speaking on the Aviation Week Window Seat podcast, Clark said Emirates would include first class if it decided to acquire the larger A350-1000. He added that he had already worked with Airbus on possible cabin designs, although the airline has not announced an order for the aircraft.

Clark also expressed interest in a potential larger A350-2000, an unofficial concept that Airbus has yet to confirm. Such an aircraft could accommodate around 400 passengers and compete with Boeing's 777-9. He suggested Emirates would welcome additional capacity and upgraded passenger features if the manufacturer developed the model.

The airline is also preparing a new business-class product for its Boeing 777-9 fleet. Developed with French aerospace company Safran under a US$1 billion agreement, the suites will feature sliding doors and a staggered layout designed to provide greater privacy.

The planned cabin will include wireless charging facilities, individual drink areas and a redesigned overhead storage arrangement. Emirates is also incorporating a social lounge space between business-class sections, offering passengers an area to relax and interact.

The airline's cabin plans reflect its broader fleet strategy as it prepares for the eventual retirement of its Airbus A380 aircraft, which remain central to its international operations. Emirates expects the superjumbo to remain in service until around 2041.

Meanwhile, delays to Boeing's 777X program forced Emirates to abandon its original business-class seat plans and restart development. Clark previously said the decision involved a payment of approximately €20 million to €30 million to the manufacturer, as the airline sought to avoid introducing outdated passenger technology.

Emirates has ordered 270 Boeing 777X aircraft, making it a major customer for the program. The timing of deliveries and the development of larger aircraft models will influence its future cabin and capacity plans.