Emirates Airlines is the flag carrier airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and one of the largest airlines in the world. The airline was founded in 1985 by the government of Dubai to establish Dubai as a global aviation hub and boost the city's economy.
Emirates Airlines began operations in October 1985 with just two leased aircraft, flying to just two destinations: Karachi and Mumbai. However, within a year, the airline had added new destinations in Asia and Europe, including Frankfurt, London, and Bangkok. The airline's early success was due to a combination of factors, including its strategic location in Dubai, its modern fleet, and its high level of customer service.
In the 1990s, Emirates expanded rapidly, adding new destinations in Europe, Africa, and Asia and acquiring new aircraft, such as the Airbus A330 and A340. In 1996, the airline launched its first long-haul route to New York, using a Boeing 777 aircraft. The airline also introduced new cabin classes, such as First Class and Business Class, and invested heavily in its in-flight entertainment system, which now includes over 4,500 movies, TV shows, and music channels.
Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, Emirates continued to grow, launching new routes to North and South America, Australia, and the Middle East and becoming one of the largest operators of the Airbus A380 superjumbo. The airline continued to innovate, introducing new technologies such as the "ICE" (Information, Communication, Entertainment) in-flight entertainment system and investing in eco-friendly initiatives such as using sustainable aviation fuel.
Today, Emirates Airlines serves over 150 destinations in more than 80 countries, operates a fleet of over 260 aircraft, and employs over 60,000 people. The airline has won numerous awards for its service and quality and is known for its luxurious onboard experience, including its private suites, gourmet cuisine, and spa treatments.