Emirates has rostered the A380 superjumbo onto two of its three daily flights to Muscat, creating a new record for the world’s shortest regular A380 service.
The route between Dubai and Muscat covers just 340km and takes 40 minutes, which Emirates says is “five minutes longer than the time taken to clean an A380 by a team of 42 people”.
The superjumbo is now operating on flights EK862/863 (departing Dubai at 0825, and returning from Muscat at 1115), and EK864/865 (departing Dubai at 1610, and returning from Muscat at 1905).
According to Bloomberg Emirates has been forced into rostering the A380 onto its Muscat route, due to the grounding of the B737 Max, which has affected partner carrier Flydubai’s schedules.
The carrier’s third daily Dubai-Muscat service (EK866/867) will continue to be operated by a B777-300ER.
The A380 operating the route is configured for three classes, with 429 seats in economy, 76 in business class, and 14 first class suites.
Emirates’ previous shortest A380 service was between Dubai and Doha (a distance of around 380km), but flights to Qatar are currently suspended as a result of the cutting of diplomatic ties in June 2017.
Commenting on the news Sheikh Majid Al Mualla, Divisional Senior Vice President Commercial Operations Centre, said:
“The incredibly popular Emirates A380 has arrived in Oman and we are pleased to give our customers travelling between Muscat and Dubai the opportunity to experience the iconic products and services on this aircraft.
“This move is the latest in Emirates’ efforts to offer a well-defined range of experiences for our customers travelling for business or leisure from Oman. We have been committed to serving the Omani market for over 26 years, and in the spirit of continuing our growth with the introduction of the A380, we are providing customers more comfort and convenience as they make their journey to Dubai and beyond.”
