Emirates explores first class suites for Airbus A350-1000 as part of future luxury plans

The airline is considering adding first class to the A350-1000, which has more space than its current A350-900 aircraft.

By SafarSamachar Desk5 Nov 2026, 9:02 am IST

Illustration

Illustration: SafarSamachar Pix Desk, created with AI assistance. Not a photograph of the event.

Key facts at a glance

1Emirates is exploring first class suites for the Airbus A350-1000
2Design work with Airbus is underway for potential first class on the A350-1000
3The A350-1000 has more cabin space than the A350-900
4Emirates has not confirmed an order for the A350-1000
5Sir Tim Clark discussed the idea in an interview on 3 November 2026

Emirates is exploring the possibility of adding first class suites to its Airbus A350-1000 aircraft as part of its plans for future luxury long-haul travel. The airline has not confirmed an order for the A350-1000 but is currently working with Airbus on design concepts for potential first class cabins.

The A350-1000 offers more cabin space than the current A350-900, which currently operates with a three-class layout: business, premium economy, and economy. The A350-900 accommodates 312 passengers, while the A350-1000 can carry up to 480 passengers. This larger capacity makes the A350-1000 suitable for high-capacity international services.

A first class cabin would require significant floor space, but the A350-1000’s larger cabin allows for more flexibility in premium seating layouts. The idea was discussed by Emirates’ chairman, Sir Tim Clark, during an interview on 3 November 2026.

Sources

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