In 2025, Emirates carried 55.6 million passengers, operated nearly 180,580 flights, circled the Earth 29,290 times, and placed orders for 73 new aircraft. While the airline marked its 40th anniversary in October, the year was defined by innovation, expansion, and a renewed commitment to “fly better.” Here are the top 10 highlights that shaped Emirates’ landmark year:
The Emirates A350 Takes Flight
Emirates’ first A350 entered commercial service in January with its inaugural flight to Edinburgh. By year-end, 16 A350s were serving 18 cities across Europe, West Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and soon the Americas, with Montreal launching in February 2026.
Strengthening Presence in Asia
Emirates expanded its Asian footprint with new daily non-stop services to Shenzhen and Hangzhou in mainland China, alongside new routes to Danang (Vietnam) and Siem Reap (Cambodia) via Bangkok, supporting growing trade and travel demand across the region.
More Premium Economy Across the Network
Responding to strong demand, Emirates expanded its Premium Economy offering across Airbus A350s and retrofitted A380s and Boeing 777s. Nearly 70 cities are now served by over 100 aircraft featuring the award-winning cabin—around 40% of the fleet.
Lightning-Fast Connectivity with Starlink
Emirates announced the rollout of Starlink Wi-Fi across 232 aircraft, beginning with Boeing 777s. By early 2026, Emirates will become the world’s first airline with Starlink-equipped A380s, offering complimentary ultra-fast internet across all cabin classes.
Connecting the World Through Sport
The airline signed or renewed nine major sports partnerships, including a seven-year deal with FC Bayern Munich, a historic extension with World Rugby through 2035, and new partnerships with EPCR. Additional agreements with AC Milan, Olympique Lyonnais, the ATP Tour, Real Madrid Basketball, and UAE Team Emirates XRG strengthened Emirates’ global sports presence.
Emirates Courier Express Launch
Emirates introduced Emirates Courier Express, a direct, door-to-door delivery service using its passenger fleet. Now serving 10 international markets, the service has handled over 50,000 packages with an average delivery time of just three days, with further expansion planned in 2026.
Emirates Skywards Turns 25
The airline’s loyalty programme celebrated its Silver Jubilee, reaching 37 million members worldwide. Skywards now adds 78,000 new members weekly, with members redeeming over 800 flight rewards daily, reaffirming its status as one of aviation’s most valuable loyalty platforms.
‘Aircrafted KIDS’ Expands Global Impact
Through its CSR initiative, Emirates distributed over 3,700 handcrafted backpacks to underprivileged children across eight countries. The bags were made from upcycled aircraft materials, supporting education while promoting sustainability.
Accessible Travel Firsts
Emirates became the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™, training over 30,000 staff. New initiatives included an Accessible & Inclusive Travel Hub, Travel Rehearsal programmes in 17 cities, enhanced onboard accessibility features, and plans for wheelchair-accessible chauffeur vehicles by early 2026.
Ongoing Investment in ‘Fly Better’
Emirates elevated its premium experience with the launch of Emirates First, a private First Class check-in at Dubai International Airport, refined onboard First Class dining, and the opening of its Centre of Hospitality Excellence to train cabin crew to Michelin-star standards. New eco-friendly kids’ products and family-focused enhancements further enriched the onboard experience.
Together, these milestones reflect Emirates’ continued investment in innovation, customer experience, and global connectivity—setting the course for the future of flying well beyond its 40th year.