With 32 more A380s on the way, Emirates is bringing back the A380 to the Dubai-New York Kennedy route this fall.
Beginning on October 31, you’ll have the chance to enjoy private suites, showers, and a cocktail bar if flying in EK’s luxurious first class cabin. The A380 began flying from DXB to JFK in 2008, but last summer was pulled from the route (an EK A380 currently flying into Toronto instead) due to weak demand.
Remember, Emirates partners with many carriers including United and Continental. On Continental, you can even mix a Star Alliance award with a partner award and enjoy a little EK and a little LX. I don’t have personal experience trying to procure award space on this route or on any Emirates’ flight, but their first class product warrants a closer look.
Can this get F on an A380?
@Randy: Using CO miles, no.
Using UA miles, yes.
Hopefully the ability to mix and match F on EK and partners will be a new feature of the new UA/CO.
@Matthew: Unless something has changed, you can not redeem CO miles for EK F, just C and Y.
@Fozz: Thanks. I updated the post above.
Emirates award chart using UA miles here:
http://www.united.com/page/article/0,,2152,00.html