unaligned

Flying bars that cater to premium passengers on the world’s biggest fleet of A380 jetliners are set for a saloon-style upgrade as Emirates seeks to lure affluent travellers amid slowing revenue growth. Out will go the semi-circular benches on which passengers have perched since Emirates introduced the on-board lounges almost a decade ago, to be replaced by an altogether more comfortable set-up featuring a table for 4 located on either side of the counter and below the superjumbo’s windows. In addition to the 8 seats, the new watering holes will have room for 18 standing guests, so that drinkers can still prop up the horseshoe-shaped bar if they prefer. And almost in anticipation of people finding it harder to drag themselves away, the areas will get soundproof curtains to separate them from adjoining first- and business-class cabins. <br/>

Twenty-five members of the New York and New Jersey Congressional delegation sent a letter asking president Donald Trump to stop Emirates from starting a roundtrip flight between Newark, New Jersey, and Athens this month, the latest salvo in a dispute over claims of unfair competition. The letter released late Tuesday contends Emirates and other Gulf airlines have an unfair advantage over American air carriers because they receive billions in state subsidies. The group wants Trump to delay the scheduled Sunday commencement of the flight until his administration can negotiate a resolution with the airlines. Wednesday, Emirates said Sunday's flight is scheduled to operate as planned. "We have the full approvals and support from the relevant authorities, airports, and travel communities in both Newark and Athens." <br/>