Emirates A380 Makes Triumphant Return to Vienna, Austria

The iconic Emirates A380 touched down in Vienna once again on 21 February 2024, marking a significant milestone after nearly a four-year hiatus. This return flight carried over 400 passengers to the Austrian capital, solidifying Emirates’ position as the sole operator of the double-decker aircraft at Vienna International Airport.

This isn’t the A380’s first Viennese waltz. The colossal aircraft first graced Austrian soil in 2014, celebrating Emirates’ decade-long service in Austria. Scheduled A380 service then commenced in 2016 between Dubai and Vienna.

“We are delighted to bring our A380 back on the Vienna-Dubai route and offer our passengers the incomparable experience on board the popular aircraft. The A380 is Emirates’ flagship aircraft and a fan-favourite among passengers around the world. The return of the double-decker marks a milestone for Emirates’ operations in Austria and demonstrates the significance of our market in Emirates’ global route network.”

Elisabeth Zauner, Country Manager Emirates Austria

“I am delighted that the Emirates A380 is back in regular service to Vienna. The world’s largest passenger aircraft is a highlight for all travellers and a great enrichment for Vienna Airport. The associated increase in capacity is a further sign of the strengthening of connections to the Near and Middle East and is good for tourism to and from Austria.”

Julian Jäger, Joint CEO of Vienna Airport

As the world’s largest passenger aircraft and the crown jewel of the Emirates fleet, the A380 boasts an impressive presence. Over 90 A380s currently navigate Emirates’ extensive network, connecting passengers to popular destinations like Bangkok, Mauritius, Denpasar/Bali, and Sydney. The three-class configuration offers a total of 519 seats: 14 in First Class, 76 in Business Class, and 429 in Economy. This translates to nearly 20% more capacity compared to previous flights on the Dubai-Vienna route, catering to increased tourist traffic and providing travellers with wider connectivity options within Emirates’ global network.

Flight schedules ensure a smooth journey. Emirates flight EK127 departs Dubai at 08:55 hrs and arrives in Vienna at 12:25 hrs. The return flight, EK128, takes off from Vienna at 15:10 hrs and lands in Dubai at 23:40 hrs (all times local).

Passengers on the Vienna-Dubai route can once again indulge in the unparalleled amenities offered by the A380. First Class boasts industry-leading onboard Shower Spas, an exclusive perk available only on Emirates A380s. Both First and Business Class travellers can unwind in the luxurious Onboard Lounge on the upper deck. Culinary delights await all passengers, with a menu featuring international and regional flavours. The award-winning in-flight entertainment system, ice, provides up to 6,500 channels of on-demand entertainment, including Austrian content and Hollywood movies with German subtitles.

The return of the A380 signifies a renewed chapter in the partnership between Emirates and Vienna, offering passengers a world-class travel experience.

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Malaysia Aviation Group to Grow Fleet by 12 Aircraft in 2024; Welcome First A330neo in Q3 2024

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) recently announced its ongoing fleet modernization plan with the introduction of 12 new aircraft in 2024. This includes the much-anticipated arrival of their first Airbus A330-900 (A330neo) scheduled for Q3 2024. Four A330neos will join the fleet this year, alongside eight Boeing 737-8 aircraft to support network expansion.

This move builds on the 20 A330neo acquisition secured in August 2022 through Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with Airbus, Rolls-Royce, and Avolon. Deliveries are staggered until 2028, with a mix of direct purchases from Airbus with leaseback arrangements and direct leases from Avolon. This significant investment underscores MAG’s dedication to providing modern aircraft and elevated service offerings, catering to the post-pandemic growth of the aviation industry.

The A330neo promises improved operational efficiency and environmental responsibility with a 25% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. Passengers can look forward to a premium experience, particularly in the Business Class cabin featuring a first-of-its-kind 1-2-1 configuration with all-suite seating and individual privacy doors for enhanced comfort and practicality. The seats boast a unique design that blends Malaysian heritage with modern flair, featuring the signature songket motif. The all-aisle access layout ensures a comfortable, fully flat bed experience complemented by luxury design elements and optimal flexibility. These innovative Elevation seats from Collins Aerospace position Malaysia Airlines as the world’s first flagship carrier to offer them on the A330 airframe. The A330neo will accommodate 297 passengers – 28 in Business Class and 269 in Economy (including 24 with extra legroom).

Beyond the A330neo, additional features are planned for a more seamless travel experience. Passengers can expect wireless charging capabilities, ergonomic seat cushions, and advanced in-flight entertainment (IFE) solutions with a dedicated Kids mode. Ample space will ensure comfort for working, relaxing, and dining. Wi-Fi connectivity will further enhance the experience, allowing passengers to stay connected throughout their journey.

“We are excited to induct the first of 20 Airbus A330neo’s in Q3 of this year, which will gradually replace our A330ceo fleet and operate to our network across Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East. This expansion is not just about increasing our inventory in numbers but also introducing the first-of-its-kind cabin class, new seats and experiences that prioritise customer safety, comfort and overall satisfaction. We will continue to channel our investments into endeavours that strategically align with the key pillars driving our customer value proposition, namely cabin comfort, in-flight dining, and service delivery of our esteemed cabin crew. We aspire to curate an overall passenger experience that not only meets premium standards but exceeds them, underpinned by our inimitable Malaysian Hospitality.”

Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of MAG

MAG’s commitment to a consistent premium experience extends beyond new aircraft. To ensure cabin standardization, six A350-900s will undergo retrofits starting in 2026, aligning them with the new A330neo standards. This initiative strengthens MAG’s position as they manage their current fleet of 104 aircraft across its subsidiaries.

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Photos by respective brands