Dubai carrier Emirates said its new A380 drew in close to 8,000 visitors during its two days appearance at the Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS) 2022.  

 

It is the largest operator of Airbus A380, with close to 80 aircraft presently in active service flying to 37 destinations in 25 countries, with more cities set to receive the double-decker by the year-end, said a statement from Emirates.

 

At the event, trade visitors, aviation enthusiasts and the general public were able to experience A380's latest signature products, including premium economy cabin which boasts luxurious leather seats, elegant wood accents, ample legroom, easily accessible charging points, one of the largest screens in the sky, in addition to many other meticulous touches, it stated.

 

In addition to its flagship A380, Emirates Flight Training Academy also displayed its Embraer Phenom 100EV  training aircraft, which was visited by many aviation hopefuls interested in pursuing  a career as a pilot.

 

On the opening day of the airshow, Emirates and Gulf Air kicked off their relationship with the official signing of a codeshare agreement, which will enable Gulf Air customers to connect via Dubai to a host of Emirates' destinations across Europe, Africa, The Far East and South America. 

 

The agreement was signed by Emirates Airline Tim Clark and Gulf Air CEO Captain Waleed Al Aalawy in the presence of Gulf Air Group Chairman Zayed Al Zayani and other senior officials of both airlines.

 

The Dubai carrier has plans to retrofit more than 120 aircraft with Premium Economy seats starting this month as part of a $2 billion investment in the onboard experience, which also includes elevated dining options and more sustainable choices.

 

Emirates has been serving Bahrain since 2000, and currently operates three flights a day between Dubai and Bahrain International Airport. It has operated its flagship A380 to Bahrain several times to mark different occasions, including the kingdom’s National Days.