KARACHI: Globally acclaimed as the largest int’l airlines, the flagship carrier of UAE, Emirates has observed four decades of operations to the Metropolis by showcasing its retrofitted Boeing 777 aircraft featuring the airline’s latest Premium Economy cabin here on Saturday (25th Oct, 2025).
It may be recalled that back in 1985 the inaugural flight (EK600) of Emirates Airlines took-off from Dubai to the Port City that was its first ever int’l destination. To celebrate the occasion key stakeholders, diplomats and govt officials converged at Jinnah International Airport. The guests were able to view the newly reconfigured four-class aircraft.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DQJ-8STldu-/The showcase flight, symbolically operating as EK600, landed at the airport Saturday morning. According to Emirates Airlines the new Premium Economy class is being gradually introduced across its international network. UAE CG Bakheet Ateeq Al-Rumaithi was conspicuous among other guests at the event that was hosted by Vice President of Emirates Airlines for Pakistan, Mohammed Alhashmi.
Commenting on the significance of the event, Alhashmi maintained that Karachi held a special place in Emirates’ history as the destination of its maiden international flight from Dubai. Over the past 40 years, Emirates has proudly connected Pakistan to the world, supporting travellers, businesses, and communities.
Partnership of Emirates had contributed significantly to Pakistan’s aviation growth, economy, and employment generation. Emirates Premium Economy has redefined comfort for a growing segment of travellers seeking an upgraded experience at competitive value.
Talking to the ladies and gentlemen in the audience Mohammad Alhashmi said: “Emirates’ 40-year journey began right here in Karachi on the 23rd of October 1985, when flight EK600 landed at Jinnah International Airport, marking the starting point of Emirates’ international footprint and the beginning of its global story. Over the last four decades, we have built a deep relationship with Pakistan, its people, its businesses and its communities.
“We’re proud to have been a major partner in the country’s growth story, supporting not only the travel needs of millions of people into and out of Pakistan, but also facilitating trade through our cargo capabilities, providing employment opportunities to thousands, supporting the tourism sector and enabling business to flourish,” Alhashmi maintained.
It is pertinent to mention here that since its launching in October 1985, Emirates has operated 87,000 flights between Dubai and Karachi, transporting 19 million voyagers. Across its five destinations in Pakistan, the airline has served over 36 million passengers on 146,000 flights. Emirates handles 73,000 tonnes of cargo annually, facilitating the Pakistani importers and exporters.
Most of the viewers might be unaware of the fact that the first flight of Emirates Airlines carried voyagers gratis. The revenue was generated by means of cargo. Emirates serves as a major link between Pakistan and global destinations including Jeddah, Medina, Toronto, London, New York, Istanbul, Kuala Lumpur, Melbourne, and Manchester. Emirates pointed out that the retrofitted Boeing 777 features latest Premium Economy cabin of Emirates designed to provide enhanced comfort and style for travellers.
Newspakistan.tv
