Passengers from Durban will receive a new option for long-haul flights as Emirates plans to put its Airbus A350 aircraft into service. This aircraft will be used on the daily route between Dubai and KwaZulu-Natal starting March 1, 2027.
The introduction of this airframe will provide the latest aircraft and the acclaimed Premium Economy cabin to King Shaka International Airport, completing the rollout of this configuration across all three South African hubs of the airline.
The A350 will operate on the daily flight EK 775/776 Emirates, offering passengers departing from Durban the opportunity to enjoy an enhanced onboard experience when connecting in Dubai to international destinations.
Popular destinations include Thailand, Indonesia, India, France, and the United Kingdom, as well as other points in the airline's global network. This move follows the introduction of Emirates Premium Economy on flights to Cape Town and Johannesburg in September 2025.
According to the airline, demand for this cabin has been consistently high over the past twelve months, attracting both tourists and corporate passengers. A significant portion of international travel from Durban is related to visiting friends and relatives abroad, and Emirates states that the new aircraft will allow these travelers to enjoy Premium Economy throughout the long journey, including subsequent connections through Dubai.
Afzal Paramabale, Emirates Regional Manager for South Africa, expressed anticipation for meeting passengers from Durban aboard the A350. He stated that the company eagerly awaits welcoming travelers from Durban onto the A350 in the new year, where they can experience the elevated level of onboard amenities and Emirates' signature service, which makes this aircraft a favorite among passengers.
Paramabale also noted that this deployment reflects the airline's commitment to South Africa, which remains an important part of its African network. He added that South Africa is a key point in the African network, boasting some of the world's busiest hubs, and the company strives to continuously improve the travel experience for its customers by offering them more choice, connectivity, and comfort.
The A350 represents the newest type of aircraft in Emirates' wide-body fleet. It features an updated cabin design, onboard technology, and entertainment options with an emphasis on passenger space and comfort.
For passengers from Durban, one of the main innovations will be the introduction of the airline's Premium Economy cabin. This cabin features soft cream leather seats designed to provide extra legroom and recline compared to Economy class. Passengers also gain access to in-seat charging ports, a wooden-finished side table, and a 13.3-inch personal entertainment screen. The cabin configuration is 2-4-2, making it suitable for families or passengers desiring more space on long journeys.
Premium Economy passengers flying from King Shaka International Airport will also have access to a dedicated check-in desk and priority boarding. Baggage allowance includes 35 kg of checked baggage and 10 kg of carry-on luggage.
In Business Class on board the A350, there is a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring each passenger has direct aisle access. The cabin is equipped with fully reclining cream leather seats, as well as personal mini-bars and wireless charging. A special snack area at the rear of the cabin allows passengers to serve themselves drinks during the flight.
Economy class is decorated in shades of sky blue, bronze, and cream, complemented by lighter wood elements. The aircraft's high ceilings and ambient lighting are designed to create a more spacious and relaxing atmosphere in the cabin.
Passengers on board will have access to Emirates' updated in-flight entertainment system, which offers over 6500 channels of content, including movies, series, music, podcasts, and digital newspapers. Updated navigation, control, and search functions are intended to facilitate finding entertainment content during travel. Furthermore, the A350 allows passengers to connect their Bluetooth headphones to the entertainment system.
Emirates reports that the in-flight dining offering will continue to feature exquisite chef-prepared dishes alongside beverage selections. The airline also offers South African wines on its international routes. Among them are Journey’s End Weather Station Sauvignon Blanc 2025, produced at a family vineyard near Stellenbosch and served in Economy class, and Vilafonté Series C 2016, which is served in First Class.
With the arrival of the A350 in Durban, Emirates expands its latest cabin experience for travelers across all three South African hubs, offering passengers greater choice when planning international trips via Dubai. The aircraft is scheduled to commence operations on the Durban route on March 1, 2027.