Emirates is celebrating the 6th anniversary of its flagship A380’s operations to Mauritius, a service which started on 16 December 2013 and became an instant hit with travellers.
Such was its popularity that the daily A380 service became a double-daily in less than a year in October 2014, following strong demand and positive feedback on the Mauritius route.
Over the past six years, Emirates’ A380s have carried around 3.5 million customers on 8,050+ flights, covering 41 million kms on the Dubai-Mauritius route. Emirates’ A380s have brought tourists to Mauritius from its network spanning six continents, with the top five cities being Dubai, Paris, London, Frankfurt and Milan. The service has connected Mauritius travelers to the world, with the five most popular destinations being Dubai, Paris, Kuala Lumpur, Delhi and London.
Emirates’ A380 service has contributed significantly to local business and trade with more than 14,800 tonnes of garment and seafood exported from Mauritius to Dubai and onwards across the vast Emirates network spanning six continents. The airline has also flown in important imports for the thriving tourism industry – more than 39,500 tonnes, mainly perishables and courier cargo.
Oomar Ramtoola, Emirates’ Manager, Indian Ocean islands said: “The Emirates A380 service to Mauritius has been extremely popular with discerning travellers. Across First, Business and Economy Class, the Emirates A380 has been an industry step-change for passengers to experience new standards of inflight comfort. Passengers love to fly it because of its spaciousness which provides more comfort across all classes, and its iconic products like the Onboard Lounge, Shower Spa and First Class suites have redefined air travel”.
“We thank the Mauritian authorities for a very fruitful partnership that has had a strong and positive impact on tourism and trade in the country. The double daily service is a first in Africa and demonstrates our belief and commitment to the destination”.
Emirates also has 1,500 flight deck crew and over 20,000 cabin crew specially trained to operate its A380 fleet. Of the nearly 300 Mauritians working for the airline, around 130 are cabin crew.
Emirates revolutionised the A380’s cabin space design when it introduced its bespoke version of the aircraft in 2008, incorporating higher ceilings, mood-lighting as well as signature, industry-first elements like its Onboard Lounge, a social area at 40,000 feet where jet-setters could meet in an ambient setting. First Class passengers experience an unprecedented level of privacy and thoughtful touches of luxury.
Emirates multiple award-winning inflight entertainment system, ice, offers unparalleled choice and quality when it comes to entertainment, with more than 4,500 channels. The Emirates A380 Economy Class seats feature among the widest individual in-seat screens in the industry, measuring in at 13.3 inches.