The Emirates Airbus A380-800 is widely regarded as one of the most iconic aircraft in the world. It has earned its reputation not only for its size but also for the luxurious experience it provides to passengers. The Airbus A380-800 operated by Emirates, features state-of-the-art amenities and services designed to offer comfort, convenience, and a premium travel experience. Whether you’re flying in First Class, Business Class, or Economy, the A380-800 has something for every passenger. Here’s a look at the emirates airbus a380-800 seat plan and key features onboard the Emirates’ A380-800 that sets it apart from other aircrafts in the aviation industry.
How Many Airbus A380’s does Emirates have?
Emirates owns a fleet of 123 Airbus A380 aircraft, making it the largest operator of the A380 in the world. In December 2021 Emirates received its 123rd Airbus A380.
As of 2024 Emirates has retrofitted 22 of the A380’s. A further 43 are undergoing refurbishments. I recently boarded EK 409 from Melbourne to Dubai and was pleasantly surprised to see that it was one of the refurbished A380’s. With just over 14 hours flying time its wonderful that Emirates has rolled out these newer aircrafts on these routes – although i know EK241 to Toronto with the same amount of flying time still flies the older version.
The retrofitting and refurbishment project is a multi-billion dollar investment which will also see most of Emirates Boeing 777-300ER’s undergo major refurbishments. This includes the roll out of premium economy.
Emirates A380 Aircraft Configurations
The Emirates Airbus A380 has four types of aircrafts which have eight different configurations:
The FOUR class (First, Business, Premium Economy & Economy) has 2 configurations.
The THREE class Ultra & Mid Range (First, Business, & Economy) has 5 configurations.
The TWO class (Business, & Economy) has 1 configuration.
The differences between these setups mainly involve the number of economy seats, but the overall seat layout stays quite similar. These variations usually won’t matter unless you are choosing a specific seat. In that case, it’s important to check the airbus a380 seat map emirates provides when booking. This will ensure accuracy and will only change if there is a last-minute aircraft change or seat reassignment by the airline.
Airbus A380 Seat Map Emirates
Here are the four types of A380’s that Emirates currently flies.
1. A380 four class ultra range (484 seats)
14 First Class Suites (Upper Deck)
76 Business Class (Upper Deck)
56 Premium Economy (Main Deck – nose of plane)
338 Economy (Main Deck – behind Premium Economy to tail of plane)
An additional aircraft with a minor difference in configuration – 341 economy seats as opposed to 338.
Emirates A380 First & Business Class Seat Map
Emirates A380 Premium Economy & Economy Class Seat Map
Emirates A380 Economy Class Seat Map
2. A380 three class ultra range (489 seats)
14 First Class Suites (Upper Deck)
76 Business Class (Upper Deck)
399 Economy (Main Deck – nose to tail of plane)
An additional 11 Aircraft with a minor difference in configuration – 401 economy seats as opposed to 399.
Emirates A380 First & Business Class Seat Map
Emirates A380 Economy Class Seat Map
3. A380 three class mid-range (517 seats)
14 First Class Suites (Upper Deck)
76 Business Class (Upper Deck)
427 Economy (Main Deck – nose to tail of plane)
An additional 19 Aircraft with a minor difference in configuration – 429 economy seats as opposed to 427.
An additional 4 Aircraft with a minor difference in configuration – 426 economy seats as opposed to 427.
Emirates A380 First & Business Class Seat Map
Emirates A380 Economy Class Seat Map
4. A380 two class mid-range (615 seats)
58 Business Class (Upper Deck mid to tail)
557 Economy (Main Deck in a 3-4-3 seating arrangement & Upper Deck nose to mid aircraft in a 2-4-2 seating arrangement)
Emirates A380 Economy Class Seat Map & Business Class Seat Map
Emirates A380 Economy Class Seat Map
Emirates Airbus A380 Cabin Classes
First Class
Private Suites
A hallmark of the Emirates First Class experience on the A380-800 is the private suite. Each suite offers complete privacy, with sliding doors, soft leather seating, and mood lighting. These suites can be converted into fully lie-flat beds, allowing passengers to sleep comfortably during long-haul flights. Passengers can also enjoy meals at any time, thanks to the dine-on-demand service. The menu offers a wide range of gourmet dishes, prepared by world-class chefs and served on fine china. A large personal TV screen with a high-definition entertainment system ensures that passengers have endless entertainment options.
First class may seem like a luxury reserved for the ultra-wealthy, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. By mastering the points game, you can fly in first class for free using frequent flyer miles and credit card rewards. Alternatively, you can experience the luxury of Emirates first class on a more affordable fifth freedom flight, where airlines offer special routes between two foreign countries, often at lower prices. With a bit of strategy, first class is within reach. When redeeming points or miles for an airline ticket ensure you use a miles redemption calculator so you can ensure you are getting good redemption value.
The Amex Membership program has Emirates as one of the airline partners. Its therefore easy to transfer amex points to Emirates with the points landing instantly.
If you are considering flying first class with Emirates, their game changer 777-300ER first class product will have you in awe. This is totally different experience with private suites being floor to ceiling. However you must know the Emirates game changer routes as they only fly a handful of them.
First Class Dining
In addition to the private suite and Shower Spa, First Class passengers have access to an exceptional dining experience. Meals are served on demand, allowing passengers to enjoy a fine dining experience whenever they prefer. This means that they can order their breakfast meal for example, even an hour before landing.
The extensive menu includes dishes inspired by various cuisines, prepared with the finest ingredients. Emirates’ attention to detail extends to every part of the meal service, from the quality of the ingredients to the presentation of the food. Passengers can complement their meal with an extensive selection of wines, champagnes, and spirits from around the world. All of this if you have space left and haven’t over indulged in one of their lounges prior to your flight. Their lounges are equally exquisite and when i am on their flight from Melbourne I ensure to get the Emirates Lounge at Melbourne Airport ahead of time.
Emirates A380 Shower Spa
One of the most extraordinary features offered by Emirates on its Airbus A380-800 is the Shower Spa, available exclusively to First Class passengers. This unique amenity allows passengers to freshen up mid-flight, which is a rare experience in commercial air travel. The Shower Spa is located at the front of the upper deck of the aircraft and is equipped with a walk-in shower, luxury toiletries, and soft towels.
Passengers are given a specific time slot of 30 minutes to use the facility, and the shower itself has a five-minute water limit, which is more than enough for a quick refresh. After showering, passengers can unwind in the comfortable seating area or return to their private suite, feeling rejuvenated and ready for the rest of their journey.
Best Seats First Class: Seat 1A is highly prized by aviation enthusiasts, carrying a certain symbolic value as it marks the very front of the plane, representing the pinnacle of air travel. For many, sitting in 1A feels like a special achievement, both literally and figuratively considered the “number one” seat on the aircraft.
Having checked it off my bucket list, I no longer aim for seat 1A. Instead, I prefer a bit more privacy by choosing a seat just behind, like 2A or 2J. These seats offer more distance from the spa/shower, and restrooms, while still ensuring timely service, particularly on early flights departing from Melbourne at 3:00 AM or 6:00 AM. I’m eager to have a quick bite to eat, rest and wake up with plenty of time to enjoy the cabin, its entertainment and indulge in the culinary experience.
Emirates A380 Business Class
In Business Class, passengers on the Emirates Airbus A380-800 can enjoy fully flatbed seats, designed for maximum comfort on long-haul flights. These seats are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring that every passenger has direct aisle access. They are not suites as seen on Qatar Qsuites or JAL A350 1000 private suites in business. They do however still offer an acceptable level of privacy. Each seat is equipped with a large personal screen, offering an extensive range of entertainment options through Emirates’ ICE system.
The seats also come with adjustable lighting, a personal mini-bar, and plenty of storage space for personal belongings. For those looking to rest, the seat can be reclined into a fully flat bed, complete with a mattress, blanket, and pillow.
Passengers in business class are given Bvlgari amenity kits as well as signature pyjamas. Emirates generally states pyjamas are provided to flights longer than 9 hours. However they handed them out on my night flight from Hong Kong to Dubai which was just over 7 hours. That was in June 2024.
Aisle Window Seat VS True Window Seat
Onboard the Emirates A380 business class cabin, there are two types of window seats. The true window seat is positioned directly next to the window, offering a view outside. The compartment and drink bar located on the right side of the seat. This setup provides a more private and cozy feel. The aisle window seat, on the other hand, is positioned closer to the aisle. The compartment and drink bar are next to the window. Though it’s still a window seat, the aisle position gives it less privacy compared to the true window seat.
Best Seats Business Class: If on a window seat the odd numbers offer the true window seat so i would generally choose 9A through to 14A. This ensures I get served more quickly, especially on night flights. Quick disembarkation is another factor I consider, along with staying in a quieter area away from the galleys, restrooms, and onboard bar, which is a top priority for me.
If flying as a couple or with friends then the middle seats paired together are a great option. This has a divider down the middle which can be lowered at any time. You would be looking at the odd number Rows.
The even number rows have the compartment in the middle and are direct aisle seats. These are ideal for solo travellers who either did not get a window seat or did not want one.
Emirates A380 Business Class Dining
Business Class passengers can also enjoy a high-quality dining experience onboard the Airbus A380-800. While not as elaborate as the First Class offering, the menu still features gourmet meals, freshly prepared and served on elegant tableware.
Passengers are given a choice of starters, mains, and desserts, along with a wide selection of beverages. The meals are served at designated times, but snacks and drinks are available throughout the flight. The combination of excellent food, fine wines, and attentive service makes dining in Business Class a truly enjoyable experience.
Emirates A380 Onboard Lounge and Bar
One of the most popular features of the Emirates Airbus A380-800 for both First and Business Class passengers is the onboard lounge and bar. Located at the rear of the upper deck, this space is designed for passengers to socialize, relax, and enjoy a selection of snacks and beverages during their flight.
The bar offers a wide range of premium drinks, including cocktails, champagne, and spirits. The lounge area features comfortable seating, mood lighting, and large windows, allowing passengers to stretch their legs and enjoy a change of scenery during the flight. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to take a break from your seat, grab a drink, and chat with fellow passengers or simply unwind.
Emirates A380 Economy Class
While First and Business Class receive the most attention, Emirates also ensures that passengers in Economy Class on the Airbus A380-800 enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
The seats in Economy Class are designed with comfort in mind, featuring adjustable headrests, ample legroom, and personal entertainment screens.
Passengers have access to the same extensive entertainment system as those in premium cabins, offering hundreds of movies, TV shows, and music options. In addition, the seats are equipped with USB ports, allowing passengers to charge their devices during the flight.
Best Seats Economy Class: If you are after more leg room then the obvious options are Rows 53 and 80. If you are after extra leg room and a more private seating of 2 then Row 67 offers this.
If you are travelling the 2 class version of the A380 (Business & Economy) then you have the opportunity to book a seat on the upper deck where the configuration is 2-4-2 and sits in front of the business class cabin. In this case your best seats are in Row 24 and Row 34 which is the exit row. If you are travelling with kids or an infant and require a bassinet seat, these are located on Row 24, 25 & Row 34.
Economy Class Dining
In Economy Class, passengers are served a selection of meals and beverages during the flight. The meals are well-prepared and cater to a range of tastes, with options for vegetarian, vegan, and other special dietary requirements. The meal service typically includes a starter, a main course, and a dessert, accompanied by a selection of beverages. Passengers can also request additional drinks or snacks from the cabin crew during the flight. Despite being in the lower fare class, the meal quality and service in Economy Class on Emirates’ A380-800 is often praised for its variety and attention to detail.
Emirates A380 Premium Economy
Emirates has been rolling out Premium Economy on select A380s (four class), offering a new level of comfort between Economy and Business Class. This cabin features:
- Reclining seats with extra legroom and wider seats compared to Economy
- Enhanced dining options, served on china tableware
- Larger entertainment screens
- Priority boarding and dedicated check-in
Premium Economy provides a more luxurious experience at a price point between Economy and Business Class, offering travellers a middle-ground option. This has also been univeiled as part of the new Emirates A350-900 cabin classes.
Emirates plans to expand this offering across more of their A380s in the coming years. It has also introduced it on board some of their Boeing 777’s.
Best Seats Premium Economy Class: Row 33 is an exit row seat and hence provides more leg room if this is what you are looking for. The seating configuration of 2-4-2 in premium economy is certainly much better than the 3-4-3 in economy.
Entertainment and Connectivity
The ICE Entertainment System
Regardless of which class you’re flying in, the Emirates Airbus A380-800 offers a top-tier entertainment system known as ICE (Information, Communication, Entertainment). This system provides passengers with access to a vast library of movies, TV shows, music, and games. The system is updated regularly, ensuring that there is always something new to watch or listen to. Each seat is equipped with a large, high-definition screen, allowing passengers to enjoy their entertainment with the best possible picture quality. The system is intuitive and easy to navigate, ensuring that passengers of all ages can make the most of it during their flight.
In-Flight Wi-Fi
Emirates also offers in-flight Wi-Fi on its Airbus A380-800, allowing passengers to stay connected during their flight. The Wi-Fi is suitable for browsing the web, checking emails, and using social media. It may not be fast enough for heavy streaming or large downloads. This feature is particularly useful for passengers on long-haul flights who wish to stay in touch with family, friends, or colleagues during their journey.
Summing Up
The Emirates Airbus A380-800 is truly a remarkable aircraft, offering passengers an unparalleled level of comfort and luxury. Whether you’re flying in the ultra-luxurious First Class, the spacious and well-equipped Business Class, or the comfortable Economy Class, the A380-800 ensures that your journey is enjoyable from start to finish. The standout features, such as the Shower Spa, the onboard lounge and bar, and the ICE entertainment system, make flying with Emirates a unique experience. For those seeking a premium travel experience, the Emirates A380-800 sets a high standard that few other airlines can match.
We are yet to see what the Emirates A350-1000 will be all about. I am hoping for a first class cabin on board similar (if not better) to what Japan Airlines has recently shown us. JAL’s A350 first class product is inspiring.
Flying with Emirates has always been a pleasure for me. Their outstanding customer service stands out, and they consistently go out of their way to ensure everything runs smoothly. On more than one occasion, they’ve gone the extra mile by forwarding my luggage directly, even when I was traveling on separate tickets, saving me the hassle of rechecking bags on my connecting flights.
Another fantastic benefit is the free stopover in Dubai, fully covered by Emirates, which adds incredible value to my journeys. It’s these thoughtful touches that keep me coming back to Emirates every time!
Choosing the right seat and knowing your aircraft can truly elevate your flight experience, helping you arrive feeling refreshed and content. And if you’re wondering what to pack, feel free to download this ultimate travel packing list for some helpful tips you may not have considered!
Happy travels!
