Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, is deploying the A350 to Durban from 1 March 2027 on its daily EK 775/776 service, expanding the roll out of Premium Economy to all South African gateways. Beyond introducing the airline’s newest cabin to Durban, the A350 brings the airline’s latest inflight experience to the KwaZulu-Natal province.

Emirates first launched Premium Economy in both Cape Town and Johannesburg in September 2025 and, over the last 12 months, has seen consistently high demand for the airline’s newest cabin, driven equally by both leisure and corporate travellers. A significant percentage of travel in and out of Durban consists of visiting friends and family internationally, with passengers connecting via Dubai into key destinations such as Thailand, Indonesia, India, France and the UK. Now passengers will be able to enjoy their entire long-haul journey to all these destinations in Premium Economy.

Afzal Parambil, Regional Manager for Southern Africa, Emirates, said: “We look forward to welcoming travellers from Durban onboard the A350 in the new year, where they can experience elevated onboard amenities and Emirates’ signature service that make this aircraft a passenger favourite.

The deployment also reflects our broader commitment to South Africa, with all our gateways now offering the latest inflight experience. South Africa remains an anchor of our African network, with some of the busiest gateways globally, and we are committed to continually enhancing the travel experience for our customers by providing them with more choice, connectivity and comfort.”

A closer look at the A350

As the newest aircraft type to join the Emirates’ fleet of all widebody aircraft, the A350 is equipped with the latest technology, enhanced entertainment options and all new cabin design focused on providing more space and comfort while travelling to elevate the in-flight experience.

The highlight is Emirates’ award-winning Premium Economy cabin that has been likened to a Business Class experience on other airlines, with its soft, cream leather seats that offer generous legroom and recline, in-seat charging points, a wood-finished side cocktail table and a 13.3-inch personal entertainment screen. Laid out in 2-4-2 configuration, Premium Economy is the ideal upgrade for comfortable long-haul family travel or solo adventurers looking for extra space.

Premium Economy passengers also enjoy a dedicated check-in counter and priority boarding at King Shaka International Airport, generous check-in baggage allowance of 35kg and a further 10kg of carry-on baggage.

Business Class is configured in a 1-2-1 layout providing every passenger with direct aisle access and a spacious, private environment to work or relax in. The fully lie-flat seat is wrapped in soft cream leather and features a personal minibar and wireless charging for comfort and convenience. At the back of the cabin is a snack display area allowing passengers to help themselves to refreshments throughout the flight.

Economy Class features an airy colour palette of sky blue, bronze and cream, complemented by lighter-toned wood finishings. The high, sweeping ceilings of the aircraft create a sense of space, while the ambient lighting helps passengers relax into the journey.

Every screen on the aircraft features Emirates’ upgraded ice inflight entertainment system. With improved navigation, controls and search, it is easier than ever to explore over 6,500 channels of content including podcasts, movies, TV series, music, digital newspapers and much, much more. Passengers can also pair their Bluetooth headphones with the A350 to use their own device while tuned into ice.

As always, customers can enjoy gourmet, regionally-inspired menus prepared by Emirates’ chefs, accompanied by a carefully curated selection of premium beverages, including Journey’s End Weather Station Sauvignon Blanc 2025, produced by the family-owned estate near Stellenbosch, South Africa in Economy and Vilafonté Series C 2016, one of South Africa’s highly regarded fine wines, in First Class.

For more information or to book tickets, visit emirates.com. Tickets can also be booked on Emirates App, Emirates Retail stores, Emirates contact centre, or via travel agents. Emirates continues to offer flexible booking policies and industry-first, comprehensive travel insurance, for added peace of mind while travelling.