Emirates will introduce its Airbus A350 aircraft on the daily Dubai–Durban route from 1 March 2027, bringing its Premium Economy cabin to Durban for the first time. The aircraft will operate flights EK 775/776, completing the airline’s Premium Economy coverage across its three South African gateways: Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
The deployment will also introduce Emirates’ latest cabin interiors, onboard technology and passenger amenities on services operating through King Shaka International Airport, strengthening travel options for passengers connecting through Dubai.
Premium Economy Network Expands to Durban
Emirates introduced Premium Economy on its Johannesburg and Cape Town services in September 2025. The airline reports demand from leisure and corporate travellers, supporting its decision to extend the product to Durban.
The city serves a substantial visiting-friends-and-relatives travel market, with passengers connecting through Dubai to destinations including India, Thailand, Indonesia, France and the United Kingdom.
With the A350 deployment, Durban passengers will gain access to the airline’s Premium Economy offering, including connections to onward long-haul services where the cabin is available.
Emirates A350 Introduces Updated Cabin Features
The Airbus A350 is the newest aircraft type in Emirates’ widebody fleet, featuring redesigned interiors and updated passenger amenities across three cabin classes.
Premium Economy features a 2-4-2 seating configuration with cream leather upholstery, increased legroom, additional recline, wood-finished cocktail tables and 13.3-inch entertainment screens. Individual charging facilities are also provided.
Passengers travelling in Premium Economy from Durban will receive dedicated check-in, priority boarding, a 35kg checked baggage allowance and 10kg of cabin baggage.
Business Class offers a 1-2-1 configuration, with direct aisle access from every seat. Facilities include fully reclining flat-bed seats, personal minibars, wireless charging and a dedicated snack display area.
Economy Class incorporates refreshed interiors featuring sky-blue, bronze and cream tones, complemented by lighter wood finishes and ambient cabin lighting.
Emirates Highlights South Africa’s Importance to Its Network
Afzal Parambil, Regional Manager for Southern Africa at Emirates, said:
“We look forward to welcoming travellers from Durban onboard the A350 in the new year, where they can experience elevated onboard amenities and Emirates’ signature service that make this aircraft a passenger favourite.
The deployment also reflects our broader commitment to South Africa, with all our gateways now offering the latest inflight experience. South Africa remains an anchor of our African network, with some of the busiest gateways globally, and we are committed to continually enhancing the travel experience for our customers by providing them with more choice, connectivity and comfort.”
Enhanced Inflight Entertainment and Dining
The A350 features Emirates’ ice entertainment system, offering more than 6,500 channels covering films, television programmes, music, podcasts and digital newspapers. Bluetooth headphone connectivity is also available.
Dining services will continue to feature regionally influenced menus and beverage selections across the aircraft’s cabins.
The airline’s broader onboard wine selection includes South African labels such as Journey’s End Weather Station Sauvignon Blanc 2025 and Vilafonté Series C 2016.
Strengthening Connectivity Through Dubai
The introduction of the A350 on the Durban route forms part of Emirates’ ongoing cabin modernisation and fleet deployment strategy.
With Premium Economy available across Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban, the airline will provide a more consistent range of cabin choices for passengers travelling between South Africa, Dubai and destinations across its international network.
Tickets for the A350-operated Durban services are available through Emirates’ website, mobile application, retail offices, contact centre and authorised travel agents.
