Emirates will introduce its Airbus A350 aircraft on daily flights to Durban from March 1, 2027, extending its Premium Economy service to all three of its gateways in South Africa. The deployment will bring the airline’s latest cabin products and onboard experience to King Shaka International Airport, giving passengers travelling to and from KwaZulu Natal additional comfort and travel options.
The aircraft will operate on Emirates’ EK 775/776 service, marking another step in the airline’s expansion of its latest-generation aircraft across its South African network. With the introduction of the A350, travellers departing from Durban will have access to the airline’s Premium Economy cabin, which was first introduced in Cape Town and Johannesburg in September 2025.
Premium Economy Expands Across South Africa
Emirates said Premium Economy has recorded consistently strong demand in Cape Town and Johannesburg over the past 12 months, attracting both leisure and corporate travellers. The airline noted that demand has come from passengers travelling in both directions, supporting the expansion of the cabin to its Durban operations.
A significant share of international travel from Durban involves visiting friends and family abroad, with many passengers connecting through Dubai to destinations including Thailand, Indonesia, India, France and the United Kingdom. The new service will allow passengers travelling on these long haul journeys to experience Emirates’ Premium Economy cabin throughout their trip.
Emirates Highlights the A350’s Onboard Experience
The A350 is the newest aircraft type in Emirates’ all widebody fleet and features updated technology, enhanced entertainment options and a redesigned cabin focused on space and comfort. Its interior is designed to provide passengers with an improved experience across all travel classes.
The Premium Economy cabin features soft cream leather seats with generous legroom and recline, in-seat charging points, a wood finished side cocktail table and a 13.3-inch personal entertainment screen. Arranged in a 2-4-2 configuration, the cabin also offers dedicated check in and priority boarding at King Shaka International Airport, along with a checked baggage allowance of 35kg and 10kg of carry on baggage.
Business and Economy Class Features
The A350’s Business Class cabin is arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, giving every passenger direct aisle access and a private space to work or relax. Its fully lie flat seats feature cream leather upholstery, personal minibars and wireless charging, while a dedicated snack display area allows passengers to access refreshments during the flight.
Economy Class features a colour scheme of sky blue, bronze and cream, complemented by lighter wood finishes and ambient lighting. The cabin’s high ceilings and spacious design are intended to create a more comfortable environment for passengers throughout their journey.
Enhanced Entertainment and Inflight Dining
Passengers across the aircraft can access Emirates’ upgraded ice inflight entertainment system, which offers more than 6,500 channels of movies, television series, music, podcasts and digital newspapers. The system includes improved navigation and search features, while Bluetooth connectivity allows passengers to use their own headphones.
Emirates will also continue offering regionally inspired meals prepared by its chefs, alongside a selection of premium beverages. The airline highlighted South African wines among its onboard offerings, including Journey’s End Weather Station Sauvignon Blanc 2025 in Economy Class and Vilafonté Series C 2016 in First Class.
