THIS is an inside look at Emirates’ luxurious “superjumbo” jet that will be landing in Glasgow today.
The images come as Emirates introduces its first double-decker A380 service in Scotland with flights between Glasgow and Dubai.
The move has been branded historic for the Scottish aviation industry, and Glasgow Airport has invested around £8 million getting its infrastructure ready for the big landing. This includes the introduction of Scotland’s only triple airbridge.
Customers travelling to and from Scotland’s biggest city on the A380 - the world’s largest commercial aircraft - can expect “more space across all classes,” bosses promised.
Standing over 24 metres high and with a wingspan of nearly 80 metres, the massive, two-level aircraft will be able to carry 500 passengers. It will have a three-class cabin configuration, offering 14 private suites in first class, 76 lie-flat seats in business and 399 seats in economy.
READ MORE: Glasgow plane spotters’ delight as superjumbo touches down
First class customers will have exclusive access to an onboard shower spa, while first and business class passengers can take advantage of an onboard lounge where they can socialise with other travellers.
The service will enter operation at Glasgow Airport on April 16 (today) with regular flights until the end of the summer season in October.
The Emirates jet is set to be welcomed by a kilted piper on the tarmac.
Glasgow Airport managing director Mark Johnston described the decision by Emirates to introduce the A380 as, not only a “huge milestone” for the transport hub but also a first in the Scottish aviation industry.
He added: “We have forged a valued relationship with Emirates since its inaugural flight in April 2004 and the introduction of Scotland’s first-ever scheduled A380 service represents a major vote of confidence in the city.
“We invested in excess of £8 million in our infrastructure to ensure Glasgow Airport is ready to welcome this iconic aircraft.”
READ MORE: Glasgow Airport to spend £8m to welcome world's largest commercial jet
This is the second time Glasgow Airport will welcome the A380 which first visited on 10 April 2014 to celebrate Emirates’ 10th anniversary at the city.
Councillor Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “Emirates’ decision to create Scottish aviation history in Glasgow not only reinforces the airline’s confidence in Glasgow Airport, it further reaffirms its commitment to the entire Glasgow city region.
“Its decision to introduce an A380, the world’s largest passenger aircraft, on its Glasgow route is further evidence of its success in and is one which will massively increase Emirates’ capacity to and from our city.”
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