Emirates to offer premium economy from 2020

Emirates is to launch a premium economy class on its aircraft from 2020, according to its president Tim Clark, which could help the carrier attract more higher spending travellers. Premium introduction by Emirates could increase competitive pressure on rival Gulf airlines Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways. Premium economy will be on the Airbus A380s that Emirates ordered this year, of which the first 6 will be delivered in 2020, Clark said. Emirates bought 20 A380s in January and has purchasing options for an additional 16 which it has said it would buy. Emirates has considered adding premium economy since at least 2016 as lower oil prices dented Middle East travel demand, and the product could woo price-sensitive corporate travellers. <br/>