Emirates to operate one-off A380 service to Accra on Oct 2

Aug 16, 2018: Emirates’ A380 aircraft will operate a one-off flight to Kotoka International Airport, Accra on October 2, 2018 as part of the airport’s new Terminal 3 opening ceremony.

The airline’s flagship double-decker will become the first-ever scheduled A380 service to Ghana, with Emirates partnering with the airport to test its operations and infrastructure to accommodate an A380 service.

“We have enjoyed a close relationship with Ghana as a strategic hub to West Africa for over a decade, and are honoured to bring our flagship A380 to this vibrant city. The launch of Terminal 3 is a milestone in Ghana’s aviation history and we support every effort to facilitate greater trade links, grow tourism and boost cargo to the region. We take great pride in showcasing our unique products and services on this aircraft such as the Onboard Lounge and Shower Spa, to travellers between Dubai and Ghana for the first time. We are grateful for the support we have received from the Ghanaian government, and in particular, the Ministry of Aviation and the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, and thank them for their continuous support,” said Orhan Abbas, Emirates' senior vice president, commercial operations - Africa.

Emirates commenced operations to Ghana in January 2004 and flies to Accra daily from Dubai. Close to 1.6 million passengers have flown the Dubai – Accra route since its start, with popular destinations being China, India and the United Kingdom via its Dubai hub. In 2017-18, Emirates transported over 6,300 tonnes of cargo to and from the country, supporting businesses and exporters. Main commodities exported from Ghana bound for the UAE and beyond to the Emirates network include fresh and cut fruits.

The Emirates A380 flying to Accra will be set in a three-class configuration, with 426 seats in economy class on the main deck, 76 flat-bed seats in business class and 14 first class private suites on the upper deck. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Emirates A380. Emirates currently has 104 A380s in service and 58 pending delivery. The airline also recently announced a US$ 16 billion (AED 58.7 billion) deal for 36 additional Airbus A380 aircraft.