If you’re about to take the EK409 flight from Melbourne to Dubai, you might be wondering about the plane you’re flying in. I know i was, when i travelled this leg just over 2 weeks ago. Let’s take a closer look at the EK409 plane type and what makes it special.
What is EK409?
Flight EK409 is operated by Emirates, a major airline based in Dubai. It flies from Melbourne International Airport in Australia to Dubai International Airport in the United Arab Emirates. It’s a direct flight, meaning you don’t have to change planes during the journey. The flight just like other long hauls like EK241 Dubai to Toronto, is approximately 14 hours. It’s return flight is EK408 Dubai to Melbourne.
Other flights with the same plane type include EK407/EK406.
EK409 Departure and Arrival Times
EK409 flight currently departs from Melbourne International Airport at 6:15 am local time. After a journey of approximately 14 hours, it arrives at Dubai International Airport at 1:10 pm local time. So, if you’re planning a trip from Melbourne to Dubai, this flight might be convenient for you as the arrival time is on par with check in hotel times. The setback is the departure time. Whilst it may seem convenient it actually means you need to be at the airport around 3:15 am – and that would mean barely sleeping that night. If you are travelling business or first class be sure to take advantage of the Emirates lounge at Melbourne airport.
Remember if this is just your transit point, you can score a free stopover with emirates and sleep, eat and dine compliments of the airline.
What plane type is Emirates EK409?
The plane used for the EK409 flight is the new retrofitted Airbus A380 800 Four Class Ultra Long-Range aircraft. The A380 is one of the largest passenger planes in the world, known for its spaciousness and comfort. It’s like a flying hotel, offering various amenities to passengers during their journey. Understanding your plane’s configuration and seat map is crucial for maximizing comfort, especially on long-haul flights. The Emirates Airbus A380-800 seat plan shows us that Emirates has four types of aircrafts and eight different configurations.
If you are a points collector like me and get to travel business and first class for free, then this is certainly the airline to be putting on your bucket list.
I hold an Amex Explorer card and am a member of the Amex Membership Program so its quite easy to transfer amex points over to Emirates. They land the same day.
First class boasts a shower and spa on board, whilst both business and first class enjoy relaxing around the onboard bar and lounge area. Whether it is socialising, or enjoying a quiet drink, there is something for everyone.
I love the little snacks they put up for passengers to nibble on in between meals. One thing is for sure, unlike other airlines, you will never go hungry on Emirates. From toasties to mac and cheese on demand, to yummy little sandwiches, they literally have something for everyone. Even chips to munch on while watching your favourite movie.
Their onboard menu has some wonderful dishes which would cater to a good variety of people. Always tasty. I have never had a bad meal on Emirates.
EK409 aircraft: Part of the Retrofit Project
Emirates has undertaken a major project to retrofit its fleet of A380 aircraft, including the ones used for the EK409 flight. Retrofitting involves updating or modifying the plane’s features and systems to enhance its performance, comfort, and efficiency.
In the case of the A380, Emirates has retrofitted 67 designated aircraft as part of this project. These retrofits include upgrades to the cabin layout, seating arrangements, entertainment systems, and fuel efficiency measures. The EK409 is part of the retrofit project, it is not one of the game changer routes though. The game changer suites are on board the Emirates Airlines Boeing 777-300ER.
EK409 – A380-800 Ultra Long-Range with 4 Classes
The EK409 plane type currently has 4 classes. As part of the retrofit project, it has added Premium Economy to its aircraft.
A380 Four Class Ultra Long-Range aircraft on EK409 boasts a total of 484 seats across four distinct classes:
- First Class: The upper deck features 14 spacious First-Class private suites, ensuring exclusivity and top-notch comfort for discerning travellers. First class travellers enjoy on board shower and spa facilities, luxury pyjamas and exclusive amenity kits. First class passengers enjoy access to the onboard lounge. The onboard fine dining is absolutely divine. The cabin crew are nothing short of exceptional.
- Business Class: Also located on the upper deck, the flight offers 76 Business Class seats, providing a sophisticated and relaxing environment for business travellers and those seeking enhanced amenities.
Business Class passengers enjoy amenity kits along with the added luxury of Emirates’ new range of pyjamas, ensuring a restful and rejuvenating journey. They also have access to the onboard bar/lounge.
- Premium Economy: The lower deck accommodates 56 Premium Economy seats arranged in a comfortable 2-4-2 layout, offering a balance of space and amenities for a premium economy experience.
Passengers in Premium Economy are treated to amenity kits, enhancing their travel comfort and convenience with essential items.
- Economy Class: With seats on the lower deck, EK409 has 338 Economy Class seats in a 3-4-3 layout, providing ample space and comfort for passengers on long-haul journeys.
Why It Matters
The retrofitting of the A380 planes used for the EK409 flight is significant for passengers. It means they can enjoy a more modern and comfortable flying experience. Passengers get more bang for their buck. With improved amenities and updated features, passengers can relax and enjoy their journey from Melbourne to Dubai.
If you want to experience the luxury without the price tag then keep your eye on the fifth freedom flights operated by Emirates.
Emirates Unveils New Pyjamas in Business Class
Business Class passengers now enjoy a pair of new style pyjamas on flight EK409. These have the feel of bamboo. Soft and light and their design is similar to loungewear, so passengers can comfortably wear them around the bar should they wish to do so. These are one of the best set of pyjamas I have seen an airline give out. I normally leave them behind – not this pair! Its that good. The slippers are closed back – a well thought out design. I had initially read that they only pass these out on flights longer than 9 hours, however this proved to be inaccurate. On a night flight from Hong Kong to Dubai (June 2024) which is approximately 7.5 hours, we were handed these pyjamas.
Some Tips on Seating in Business Class
Window Seats:
Identify True Window Seats: When choosing a window seat, it’s essential to differentiate between true window seats and aisle window seats. True window seats are positioned directly next to the window, offering unobstructed views outside. On the other hand, aisle window seats have the compartment and drink bar separating them from the window, limiting the view and experience.
Middle Seats:
- Side-by-Side Configuration: If you’re traveling with a partner or companion, consider opting for middle seats in a side-by-side configuration. These seats allow for a more intimate and shared experience during the flight. The divider between the seats can be lowered, creating a larger space for interaction, conversation, or simply enjoying the journey together. This is especially important when parents are travelling with kids.
- Privacy and Separation: On the other hand, if you prefer more privacy and individual space, choose middle seats that are separated by compartments or a drink bar. These configurations provide a sense of exclusivity and separation from neighbouring passengers, allowing you to focus on your own comfort and activities without disturbances.
Connectivity Options
When flying in Business Class, it’s essential to know about the connectivity options available to ensure a comfortable and productive journey. Here’s some information about the connectivity features typically found in Business Class seats:
Power Outlets: Business Class seats are often equipped with power outlets located conveniently above the seat. These outlets allow you to charge your electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones during the flight. The power provided is usually sufficient for most devices and can help you stay connected throughout the journey.
I generally plug my laptop in here and the battery does not drop under 100% for the whole flight. Thats about 14 hours of movie viewing time.
Plug Type: The default plug type for power outlets in Business Class seats is often the UAE/UK plug. This means that if you are traveling with electronic devices that use a different plug type, such as US or EU plugs, you may need to bring an adaptor to ensure compatibility with the power outlets onboard. My Australian power cable fits in perfectly well. I do however always carry an adaptor with me.
USB Ports: In addition to power outlets, Business Class seats also typically feature USB ports. These ports are convenient for charging smaller devices like smartphones, e-readers, and portable chargers. USB ports are usually located at the same place as the power outlets.
Connectivity Options: Emirates offers free in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity in Business Class, allowing passengers to access the internet, send emails, and stay connected with colleagues, friends, and family during the flight. It works quite well throughout the flight but drops out when travelling over some countries in the sub continent.
Summing Up
Emirates’ EK409 flight stands out not only for its impressive A380 Four Class Ultra Long Range configuration but also for the range of amenities and comforts offered to passengers across the majority of its classes. Whether you’re seeking exclusivity in First Class, sophisticated comfort in Business Class, or a premium experience in Premium Economy and Economy, EK409 promises a memorable and enjoyable journey from Melbourne to Dubai.
Now, for my flight to Athens and onto the majestic island of Amorgos to enjoy a chilled organic cocktail in the serene botanical garden of Katapola. That’s one of my go to places.
Safe Travels 😊
