Emirates A380 star attraction at Birmingham Airport

An Emirates' Airbus A380 was the star attraction at Birmingham Airport's 70th anniversary celebrations, demonstrating in dramatic fashion just how far air travel has moved on over the decades. Seventy years after Birmingham Airport's first passengers departed in an eight-seat de Havilland Dragon Rapide aircraft, many across the city were mesmerised by the largest passenger jet aircraft ever built. It was the first ever flight by the superjumbo to a UK regional airport.

The Emirates' A380 was operating a special service on the airline's lunchtime flights to and from Birmingham, giving passengers from the West Midlands a one-off opportunity to experience its luxurious onboard amenities. These include private suites and shower spas in first class, flat beds in business class, an onboard lounge for first and business class customers, and more generous seats and wider aisles in economy class. The aircraft boasts the award-winning ice entertainment system, with over 1000 channels of on-demand entertainment.

During the anniversary event, bringing together around 500 guests from the travel, business and airline community, the award-winning carrier announced another treat for travellers from the region, the construction of an Emirates Lounge.