Emirates Launches Retrofitted 777 with Premium Economy for First Time in Continent

ByAIron Newsman Hours
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DUBAI- Emirates (EK), recognized as the largest international airline globally, has introduced its first retrofitted Boeing 777 to Johannesburg (JNB) and Cape Town (CPT). This marks the debut of its much-lauded Premium Economy cabin in South Africa.

To celebrate this milestone, the airline organized guided tours of the aircraft in both cities, showcasing refreshed interiors and upgraded cabin designs to key government representatives, aviation experts, and tourism stakeholders.

Emirates Adds Retrofitted 777 with Premium Economy to This Continent for First TimeEmirates Adds Retrofitted 777 with Premium Economy to This Continent for First Time
Photo: Emirates

Emirates Retrofitted its 777 to Africa

This deployment reflects Emirates’ continued dedication to South Africa, a market it has served for over 30 years.

Noteworthy attendees included prominent industry professionals such as Wrenelle Stander, CEO of Wesgro, and Poppy Khoza, Director General of the South African Civil Aviation Authority. Also present were Rashid Alardha, Emirates’ Vice President Commercial Operations for Sub-Saharan Africa, and Afzal Parambil, the Regional Manager for Southern Africa.

Regarding this important development, Afzal Parambil shared, “Celebrating three decades of service to South Africa, our goal is to consistently provide the latest innovations to our passengers.” He added that the retrofitting introduces Premium Economy and a revamped Business Class experience, aiming to enhance passenger enjoyment further.

Emirates 777 retrofitted to South AfricaEmirates 777 retrofitted South Africa
Photo: Emirates

Refreshed 4 Class Cabin Experience

The refurbished Boeing 777 incorporates modern design features, including fresh color schemes and Ghaf Tree motifs throughout the cabins.

It offers a configuration of 260 Economy seats, 24 Premium Economy seats, 38 Business Class seats arranged in a 1-2-1 layout, and eight exclusive First Class Suites.

  • Economy Class: Newly designed in ocean blue, featuring high ceilings and generous legroom with improved seating.
  • Premium Economy: Making its first appearance in South Africa, this section boasts wide, leather reclining seats complete with leg and footrests, adjustable headrests, and 13.3-inch HD screens. On select flights, passengers enjoy amenities like blankets and pillows, along with exclusive sparkling wine service.
  • Business Class: Enhanced with champagne-colored leather seating arranged for aisle access and privacy that reflects the modern design seen on Emirates’ latest A380.
  • First Class: Maintains its luxurious essence as a private “hotel in the sky,” optimized with upgraded finishes that adhere to Emirates’ high standards of elegance.
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Emirates Adds Retrofitted 777 with Premium Economy to This Continent for First TimeEmirates Adds Retrofitted 777 with Premium Economy to This Continent for First Time
Photo: Emirates

Emirates’ Retrofit Programme

Initiated in November 2022, Emirates’ extensive USD $5 billion retrofit programme is a significant undertaking in commercial aviation. It includes upgrades for 219 Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, providing comprehensive enhancements.

The programme is managed entirely by Emirates Engineering, which has over 270 engineers and technicians working diligently, contributing more than 1,800 manhours for each aircraft. As of now, 67 aircraft have been upgraded, including 35 Boeing 777s and 32 A380s.

Upon completion, the programme aims to deliver:

  • 8,512 new Premium Economy seats
  • 2,034 refreshed First Class Suites
  • 12,720 redesigned Business Class seats
  • 68,364 upgraded Economy Class seats

This ambitious programme underscores Emirates’ commitment to enhancing passenger comfort and embracing innovation throughout its fleet.

What do you think of the enhancements made to Emirates’ retrofitted Boeing 777?

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