Emirates Airline has hinted that it is likely to upgrade its new route to Orlando, Florida to its flagship aircraft – the Airbus A380 – to meet consumer demand.
Emirates launched its 10th destination in the United States with the start of daily nonstop passenger service between Dubai and Orlando International Airport on Tuesday.
The route will initially be served by a Boeing 777-200 LR aircraft, which seats 266 passengers.
But in a statement, Emirates said it “has historically increased its service capacity by up-gauging from Boeing 777 models to the A380 to meet strong consumer demand”.
In December 2014, Emirates commenced A380 service to Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport, which joined John F Kennedy International Airport, Los Angeles Airport, San Francisco International Airport and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport as US destinations offering direct service to Dubai on the Emirates A380.
“Our new daily service will enable Emirates to grow alongside Orlando, one of the world’s premier leisure destinations and a dynamic business centre,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Airline & Group.
“Since 2004, Emirates has carried more than 11 million passengers on its US flights and this new route will open up even more options for passengers travelling to Orlando. Additionally, the aircraft on this route has the capability to carry more than 17 tons of cargo in each direction every day, which will support Florida’s export market.”
“Florida is on a mission to become the global leader in job creation and we are excited about the new Emirates nonstop flight between Orlando and Dubai,” said Florida Governor Rick Scott.
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer added: “Emirates’ nonstop service to Orlando opens a new world of opportunity for us to pursue tourism and business exchanges with the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Business and leisure tourism is critical to Central Florida’s economy and this new direct service will make it easier for travellers to get to and from Orlando, creating new jobs and opportunities for our residents.”
Emirates’ daily flight EK219 will have a flying time of 15 hours and 50 minutes from Dubai.
On the special occasion of its Orlando launch, Emirates dispatched its flagship aircraft – the Airbus A380 – to celebrate the milestone and meet demand for the first flight.
Orlando is famous for its world-class theme parks, family entertainment and year round sunshine which bring in over 59 million visitors each year. It also has a strong business base with thriving industries in Advanced Technology, Film and Digital Media production, Aerospace and Life Sciences.
ArabianBusiness.com