Emirates Wraps Up 2025 with Network Growth, New Aircraft and Service Milestones

International

From fleet expansion to connectivity, accessibility and premium travel, the airline marked a year of large-scale investment and innovation

In 2025, Emirates carried 55.6 million passengers on nearly 180,600 flights, placed orders for 73 new aircraft and celebrated its 40th anniversary. Beyond the milestone year, the airline focused on expanding capacity, upgrading onboard experiences and investing in technology and inclusivity.

Fleet, Network and Connectivity

The Emirates A350 entered commercial service in January, with 16 aircraft now flying to 18 cities across Europe, West Asia, Australia and the Middle East, with Montreal joining in early 2026. The airline also strengthened its Asia network, adding Shenzhen and Hangzhou in mainland China, alongside new services to Danang and Siem Reap.

Premium Economy continued its rollout, now available on more than 100 aircraft serving close to 70 cities, representing about 40% of the passenger fleet. In parallel, Emirates announced the installation of Starlink Wi-Fi across 232 aircraft, aiming to become the first airline with Starlink-equipped A380s in 2026.

Sports, Logistics and Loyalty

Emirates expanded its global sports portfolio with major partnerships, including FC Bayern Munich, long-term extensions with World Rugby, and new agreements across football, rugby, basketball, tennis and cycling.

The launch of Emirates Courier Express introduced direct, passenger-fleet-based package delivery, now serving 10 international markets with average delivery times of three days.

Meanwhile, Emirates Skywards marked its 25th anniversary, reaching 37 million members worldwide and adding around 78,000 new members each week.

Accessibility, CSR and Premium Experience

In 2025, Emirates became the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™, expanded accessibility services and introduced travel rehearsal programs for neurodiverse passengers. Its Aircrafted KIDS initiative delivered 3,700 backpacks to children across Africa, Asia and the Middle East, made from upcycled aircraft materials.

Premium investments included the opening of Emirates First, a private First Class check-in at Dubai International Airport, enhanced onboard First Class service elements and a new Centre of Hospitality Excellence to train cabin crew to luxury hospitality standards.

The year concluded with 25 international awards, reinforcing Emirates’ focus on service quality as it looks ahead to the next phase of growth.