Today, I am excited to fly from Dubai to Guangzhou with Emirates in Business class. I have waited for a long time to fly on their double-deck, jumbo jet Airbus 380. The flight time is 6 hours and 10 minutes in 3,792 miles.
Door-to-Door Service
Emirates is offering Chauffeur-drive to its First and Business class customers; this is a free, private transportation service, only at select cities, transferring the customer from home or hotel to the airport for departure, and after arrival, to home or hotel. I booked the drive on the Emirates website a day before my departure. The gentleman in black suit arrives at the hotel front door before the scheduled time. We promptly head to the airport.
At the Airport
Dubai International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world and is the home of the Emirates airline. The checkin and security check are quick and smooth. It is still 7am in the morning, and the airport is already crowded with people.
The Lounge
Emirates Lounge is located at Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport. The lounge is so massive that you may need a map to know your way around. There are several of available facilities inside, such as spa and health club. There is a great selection of food from different countries.
Boarding
The most exciting moment has arrived — boarding the the gigantic A380 aircraft! There are 280 passengers in today’s flight. The boarding process is rather quick.
The Aircraft
This aircraft is 12 years old and capable of carrying 489 passengers. There are two floors in this plane. The upper deck is partitioned into three sections: 1) First class 1-2-1 suites; 2) and 3) Business class 1-2-1 seats which can be turned into a flat bed; 4) the Emirates Onboard Lounge. The lower deck is for Economy class. First and Business class passengers enter the aircraft via the front door while Economy passengers enters through the rear door. Here is a quick cabin tour:
Business class
First class
Thanks to the Emirates flight crew for touring me the First class area. First class passengers can enjoy a shower in the sky.
Sky Lounge
The famous Emirates Onboard Lounge is located the rear section of the aircraft on the upper floor. During a long-haul flight, passengers can socialize, relax and enjoy some snacks and drinks at the bar.
The Flight
Unlimited WIFI is free for Business class passengers thorough the flight. In front of each seat is a high resolution screen with a great selection of programs to keep the passenger entertained during the flight. In the ambient lighting environment, we are taking off and leaving Dubai. Below are some videos taken during the takoff. Please enjoy.
Tailgating another A380:
The beautiful takeoff:
Floating above the cloud:
Meals
One meal is served during this 6+ hour flight. Snacks can be ordered any time during the flight.
Service
The entire flight crew is professional, friendly and attentive. The service is excellent.
Landing
Before we know it, we are already cruising in the sky of Guangzhou. The Captain makes the landing preparation announcement. Everyone is seated and the big bird touches down safely and smoothly – kudo to the pilots. Below is the video showing landing process.
Conclusion
I love this huge, magnificent A380 aircraft. It is the largest aircraft in the world and is beautifully engineered. I am so glad I have a chance to fly with it in this trip. I enjoyed every moment in this flight – from getting to the airport, at the lounge, checking in, to boarding, in the flight and the landing. Emirates is one of my favorite airlines and I highly recommend it to everyone.
Also special thanks to the cabin crew team and the Captain for touring me the A380 cockpit!
Sumyi’s Rating:
- Check-in: 5/5
- Seating: 4.5/5
- Inflight entertainment: 5/5
- Food and beverage: 5/5
- Service: 5/5
- Environment: 5/5
- Overall: 5/5