World’s largest passenger aircraft to operate out of Scotland for the first time as Emirates announce Glasgow Airbus A380 services

THE world’s largest passenger aircraft is to operate out of Glasgow Airport for the first time.

Emirates have announced that they will use the Airbus A380 on services between Scotland and Dubai from April.

The double decker plane is as long as two blue whales and as tall as five giraffes, with a wingspan the same as nine double decker buses.

The A380 will offer passengers 14 Private Suites in First Class, 76 fully flat-bed seats in Business Class and 399 seats in Economy Class.

Mark Johnston, Managing Director of Glasgow Airport, said: “The decision by Emirates to introduce the A380 is not only a huge milestone for Glasgow Airport, it marks what is a first in Scottish aviation industry.

“We have forged a valued relationship with Emirates since its inaugural flight in April 2004 and the introduction of Scotland’s first-ever scheduled A380 service represents a major vote of confidence in the city.”

The airport is currently investing over £8m in its infrastructure to ensure it’s ready for the aircraft, which has 40% more usable space than a Boeing 747.

It will operate throughout the busy summer season.

Richard Jewsbury, Divisional Vice President UK, Emirates said: “Scotland is a key part of our success in the UK and we are pleased to be bringing the A380 to Glasgow. The Emirates A380 is one of the most iconic aircraft in the world and it continues to delight passengers.”

One of the giant jets first landed at Glasgow back in 2014 as part of celebrations for the 10-year anniversary of services between the city and Dubai.

Crowds gathered around the airport’s perimeter to see the aircraft, with a wing span of almost 80m, land on Scottish soil for the first time.

Councillor Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “Emirates’ decision to create Scottish aviation history in Glasgow not only reinforces the airline’s confidence in Glasgow Airport, it further reaffirms its commitment to the entire Glasgow city region.

“Its decision to introduce an A380, the world’s largest passenger aircraft, on its Glasgow route is further evidence of its success in and is one which will massively increase Emirates’ capacity to and from our city.

“Having two flights out of Dubai – one of the world’s largest hub airports – arriving in the city everyday greatly increases Glasgow’s global connectivity, particularly through Emirates’ worldwide route network, and today’s announcement is another positive step in terms of forging greater business links and increasing visitor access from key emerging markets such as China and India.

“Our international city marketing strategy, which underpins our Tourism and Visitor Plan to 2023, is anchored in working collaboratively with Glasgow Airport, carriers and wider city and national partners, and we remain committed to developing direct and sustainable air routes that connect Glasgow to the international marketplace.”