Emirates deploys Airbus A350 on Hangzhou route and expands premium economy rewards

The new configuration includes 32 Business Class seats that convert into fully-flat beds, 22 Premium Economy seats with increased pitch and recline compared to standard economy, and 259 Economy seats.

Adnan Kazim, Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates, stated: “Over the last year we have made significant investments in our operations to Chinese mainland, creating meaningful impact through the launch of brand-new destinations and providing an elevated in-flight experience with our latest products. Introducing the A350 to Hangzhou is the natural next step, as we continue to bring the latest and greatest that Emirates has to offer to China’s skies."

Emirates has historically maintained limited routes into China compared with other regions but has expanded recently due to growing travel demand between China and the UAE. Factors contributing include strengthened bilateral relations and initiatives like China's Belt and Road Initiative. The airline also benefits from fewer restrictions than some European competitors who have reduced services because of Russian airspace closures.

Currently, Emirates operates flights from Dubai to five cities in mainland China—Beijing (twice daily), Guangzhou (daily), Hangzhou (daily), Shanghai (twice daily), and Shenzhen (daily)—using either Boeing 777-300ER or Airbus A350-900 aircraft depending on destination. In total, there are now 49 weekly flights from Dubai to mainland China; Hong Kong is also served twice daily by both Boeing 777-300ERs and Airbus A380s.

The introduction of Premium Economy rewards allows Skywards members—numbering about 35 million—to redeem miles for full tickets or upgrades within this new cabin class. Previously these points could only be used for upgrades from Economy to Business Class; cash was required for Premium Economy bookings until now. One-way tickets start at 15,000 miles plus fees while upgrades begin at just over 7,000 miles; these can be booked ahead or requested at check-in if available. The option is initially exclusive to Skywards members but may expand later.

Emirates’ fleet expansion marks its first addition of a new aircraft model since 2008; unlike older planes being retrofitted with Premium Economy cabins, all new A350 deliveries come equipped from arrival.