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Navigate the Skies with Premium Travel InsightsEmirates Expands Premium Economy with Retrofitted A380s to Manchester and Milan
Apr 14, 2025Emirates Brings Premium Economy A380s to Manchester and Milan Starting Summer 2025
Dubai, UAE – 9 April 2025 — Emirates continues to redefine premium air travel by announcing the deployment of its newest retrofitted Airbus A380s to Manchester and Milan, complete with its flagship Premium Economy cabin and redesigned interiors.
This rollout is part of the airline’s broader fleet upgrade strategy and growing global Premium Economy network, aimed at offering more elevated options to travellers between Europe, the Middle East, and destinations across Asia and Oceania.
Key Route Launch Dates:
- Manchester (EK017/018): Beginning 6 June 2025
- Milan (EK091/092): Beginning 1 July 2025
With this enhancement, Emirates will offer nearly 5,000 Premium Economy seats weekly between the UK and Dubai, as Manchester joins the ranks of London Heathrow, Edinburgh, and the soon-to-be-serviced London Stansted with upgraded aircraft.
Milan becomes the second Italian city to receive Emirates’ Premium Economy product, complementing the airline’s forthcoming A350 deployment to Bologna scheduled for later in June.
What to Expect Onboard

Emirates' four-class A380 features a dedicated Premium Economy cabin on the main deck. This section offers 56 seats arranged in a 2-4-2 configuration, with a focus on comfort, convenience, and a subtle sense of luxury:
- Generous legroom and seat width
- Adjustable calf rests and footrests
- In-seat charging and cocktail side tables
- Enhanced dining experience with a curated menu Premium drinks, including Chandon Vintage Brut 2016, exclusively served in Emirates Premium Economy
The new configuration promises a step up from standard economy without the full investment required for business class, making it a compelling option for upscale travellers seeking value and comfort.
Seamless Premium Experience Across the Network

These retrofitted A380s are part of Emirates’ broader investment in fleet modernisation and service enhancement. By July 2025, 19 destinations worldwide will be served by Emirates’ upgraded A380s. For travellers departing from Manchester and Milan, this means direct access to a full-service, four-class journey to major global destinations including:
- Sydney
- Singapore
- Osaka
- Mumbai
- Bangalore
- And more across Asia and Australasia
A Commitment to Premium Air Travel
This move solidifies Emirates’ reputation as a global leader in in-flight experience and continues the airline’s strategy of blending innovation with comfort at every level of its service.
Whether you're heading to the beaches of Bali, the bustle of Mumbai, or the skyline of Sydney, Emirates’ Premium Economy delivers a seamless, elevated experience for discerning travellers who want more without compromise.
Fly Premium, Fly Smart.
Book your next luxury trip with PrivyTrips and secure your seat in Emirates’ new Premium Economy cabin before demand soars. Visit PrivyTrips.com for exclusive business and first-class offers to top-tier destinations.
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