Emirates to bring in A380 service to Glasgow Airport

Dec 17, 2018: A380, the world’s largest commercial aircraft will enter operation at Glasgow Airport on April 16, 2019, which will be introduced by Emirates for the first time in the aviation history of Scotland.  Standing over 24 metres high and with a wingspan of nearly 80 metres, A380 will operate throughout the summer season until the end of October 2019. 

Since Emirates’ inaugural flight at Glasgow Airport on April 10, 2004, it has been one of the airport’s biggest success stories carrying more than four million passengers across its global network which now covers 155 destinations. The airline’s decision to introduce its flagship A380 confirms its status as Scotland’s leading long-haul airline. 

Mark Johnston, MD of Glasgow Airport, said, “The decision by Emirates to introduce the A380 is not only a huge milestone for Glasgow Airport, it marks what is first in a Scottish aviation industry. We have forged a valued relationship with Emirates since its inaugural flight in 2004 and the introduction of Scotland’s first-ever scheduled A380 service represents a major vote of confidence in the city.  We are currently investing in excess of £8 million in our infrastructure to ensure Glasgow Airport is ready to welcome this iconic aircraft when it touches down next April.” 

The A380 will offer passengers 14 private suites in first class, 76 fully flat-bed seats in business and 399 seats in economy class. It is the second time Glasgow Airport will welcome the A380 which first visited on April 10, 2014 to celebrate Emirates’ 10th anniversary at the city. 

Richard Jewsbury, divisional vice president UK, Emirates commented, “Scotland is a key part of our success in the UK and we are pleased to be bringing the A380 to Glasgow. The Emirates A380 is one of the most iconic aircraft in the world and it continues to delight passengers. From the exclusive shower spas in first class, to the on board lounge for first and business class customers to the spacious seats in economy class, the in-flight experience on our A380 is like no other.” 

Councillor Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said, “Having two flights out of Dubai, arriving in the city everyday greatly increases Glasgow’s global connectivity, particularly through Emirates’ worldwide route network, and the recent announcement is another positive step in terms of forging greater business links and increasing visitor access from key emerging markets such as China and India.” 

“Our international city marketing strategy, which underpins our Tourism and Visitor Plan to 2023, is anchored in working collaboratively with Glasgow Airport, carriers and wider city and national partners, and we remain committed to developing direct and sustainable air routes that connect Glasgow to the international marketplace,” Aitken added. 

Cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity Michael Matheson said, “It further strengthens our connectivity with the UAE, as well as with markets in Asia, Africa and Australasia which are important for Scottish business and our vital tourism sector.”