Dubai-based Emirates has officially reinstated its daily flights between Adelaide and Dubai, utilizing the Boeing 777-200LR for this route. This renewed service provides travelers with more than 4,200 seats weekly, linking Dubai with the capital of South Australia.
Aircraft details and capacity
The Boeing 777-200LR features a total of 302 seats, divided into two classes: 38 Business Class seats arranged in a 2-2-2 layout, and 264 seats in Economy Class. This reinstatement is set to accommodate over 220,400 passengers annually, underscoring the airline’s dedication to South Australia and addressing the rising demand for travel to and from the area.
Economic impact on tourism
The return of Emirates is poised to significantly benefit South Australia’s economy and tourism sector. According to the South Australian Tourism Commission, the daily non-stop flights from Emirates are projected to generate upwards of $62 million in tourism spending each year, while also creating more than 315 full-time equivalent tourism jobs for locals.
Strengthening trade links
Emirates SkyCargo will enhance trade connections between South Australia and global markets, including key regions in the Middle East, Europe, and the USA. Each daily flight will provide 14 tonnes of cargo capacity, totaling 196 tonnes weekly between Dubai and Adelaide.
Key exports and freight value
Key export commodities expected to be transported include seafood, meat, fruits and vegetables, as well as general cargo like pharmaceuticals, machinery parts, retail clothing, and electronics. The estimated annual value of these freight exports is around $98 million, bringing the total economic impact of Emirates’ flights to Adelaide to approximately $160 million.
Read more: Emirates optimizes commercial portfolios to position for global growth
Boosting tourism
Peter Malinauskas, Premier of South Australia, noted that the return of Emirates’ daily service to Adelaide holds great significance for the state. He emphasized that this development not only welcomes back a top-tier airline but also re-establishes South Australia’s connection to the world, allowing over 220,000 potential visitors each year to experience the region. This reconnection is expected to stimulate the economy, create jobs, and unlock new avenues for trade and tourism.
Renewed international appeal
Zoe Bettison, South Australia’s minister for Tourism, remarked on the arrival of the first Emirates passengers and highlighted the renewed appeal of South Australia to key international markets. She stated that the airline’s return would be critical in expanding the state’s international market, currently valued at $1.3 billion for the visitor economy, and expressed anticipation for South Australia to be featured in Emirates’ global marketing initiatives.
Emirates’ commitment to Australia
Nabil Sultan, Emirates’ executive vice president of Passenger Sales and Country Management mentioned that Australia continues to be a priority market for the airline, one they have been committed to for nearly thirty years. He further noted that the resumption of the Adelaide service reinforces their dedication to growing their network in Australia, now comprising 70 weekly flights across five cities.
Benefits for Adelaide Airport
Brenton Cox, managing director of Adelaide Airport, explained that customers would benefit from Emirates’ expansive global network, providing increased competition and choices for travelers while connecting through Dubai to various international destinations. He emphasized that this service is essential for the tourism sector, trade, and the broader economy, while also creating export opportunities for local producers.
Overall service expansion
Emirates currently operates 70 weekly flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, connecting passengers to over 140 destinations worldwide. Additionally, on December 1st, Emirates will reinstate its second daily service to Perth, offering a total of 77 weekly flights from Australia, enabling the transport of 68,000 passengers weekly and returning to pre-pandemic levels.
A year of accolades
Emirates airline has emerged as the ‘World’s Best Airline’ among 90 international carriers in a recent survey conducted by Telegraph Travel.
This comprehensive ranking was based on over 30 criteria, including punctuality, baggage allowances, route networks, the quality of home airports, fleet age, the value of rewards programs, and the appeal of in-flight meals. The findings were informed by data from more than 18 independent awards, reader polls, rating websites, and expert evaluations.
In 2024 alone, Emirates has garnered an impressive 19 additional awards and recognitions from various global sources. This includes seven accolades at the Skytrax World Airline Awards in June, highlighting its excellence in categories such as World’s Best Airline Inflight Entertainment, Best First Class Airline Comfort Amenities, Best First Class Airline in the Middle East, Best First Class Onboard Catering in the Middle East, Most Family Friendly Airline in the Middle East, Best Premium Economy Class Airline in the Middle East, and Best Premium Economy Class Onboard Catering in the Middle East.
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