Emirates is the number one airline for premium capacity measured in international Available Seat Kilometrea (ASKMs), clocking in 876 million ASKMs per week, according to OAG schedule data for April 2014.

This is primarily due to the long-haul nature of Emirates fleet deployment.

In July the airline received delivery of its 50th A380, configured with 90 first and business class seats, further adding to Emirates’ average weekly capacity of over 191,000 premium seats, according to OAG data from April 2014.

Tim Clark, president of Emirates Airline, commented: “Our A380 is a showcase for many of our innovative and iconic on-board products, such as the shower spa, onboard lounge, and the first class private suite.”

Over 27.5 million passengers have flown on Emirates’ A380s since 2008, with premium and overall seat factors on the A380 fleet consistently outperforming the network.

Globally, Emirates’ first class capacity grew by six per cent over the past year, while first class passenger traffic increased by eight per cent.

Emirates is in the advanced stages of developing a new first class ‘bedroom concept’ for its A380 and new Boeing 777 fleets.