SAN FRANCISCO- Emirates (EK), one of the world's largest international airlines and a key facilitator of crucial trade connections, is delighted to announce the completion of 15 years of operations in San Francisco (SFO). The post Emirates Marks 15...
SAN FRANCISCO- Emirates (EK), one of the world’s largest international airlines and a key facilitator of crucial trade connections, is delighted to announce the completion of 15 years of operations in San Francisco (SFO).
This route holds significant importance in the airline’s US network and is among the top five in its global network in terms of distance flown.
Photo by Emirates
Emirates San Francisco Flights
Since Emirates initiated services to San Francisco International Airport on December 15, 2008, it has transported over 3.4 million passengers on more than 9,900 flights along the route.
Beyond supporting passenger travel and tourism, the airline has facilitated trade by transporting over 44,000 tonnes of cargo, contributing to the export and import of various commodities.
At its launch fifteen years ago, operated by a Boeing 777-200LR, the inaugural service was recognized as the “world’s longest green flight” for its fuel-saving efficiencies achieved through cross-border collaboration with aviation stakeholders across its 16-hour flight path.
The operational efficiencies introduced at that time helped save an estimated 2,000 gallons of fuel and reduce carbon emissions by 30,000 pounds on the flight.
Many of the fuel and emission-saving measures initially tested on this service have now been integrated into Emirates’ operational procedures as part of its ongoing efforts to reduce emissions.
These measures include the use of the ‘drywash’ technique for aircraft cleaning to minimize drag and reduce water consumption, employing electrical power on the ground in Dubai instead of the auxiliary power unit, applying minimal thrust on landing, and using single-engine taxiing to the gate. Additionally, consumable items onboard are collected for recycling after each flight arrives in Dubai.
Photo: Christian Junker | Photography | Flickr
Frequency Increase and Aircraft Upgrade
The San Francisco route, initially served by a Boeing 777-200LR aircraft, saw an increase in frequency to daily to meet growing travel demand over the years.
In December 2014, the aircraft was upgraded to Emirates’ flagship A380, providing a significant boost in capacity on this busy route and introducing the airline’s signature services.
Earlier this year, Premium Economy was introduced on the daily flights, offering passengers more choice. The double-decker A380, configured in a four-class setup, has the capacity to accommodate up to 484 passengers and carry 15 tonnes of cargo in the bellyhold.
The recently retrofitted Emirates A380, serving this route, introduces seats across four cabin classes, including 56 Premium Economy seats featuring plush cream leather.
This new cabin class offers seats with a generous recline, increased legroom, and an elevated dining experience, among other considerate and luxurious features, providing customers with enhanced comfort and value-added amenities.
Photo: By Håkan Dahlström – originally posted to Flickr as SFO international terminal, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=10615771
Popular Destination for Asian Countries
The most sought-after destinations and key origin points connected to San Francisco include various locations in India and Pakistan and points in Kenya, South Africa, Maldives, Egypt, and the Emirates’ hub city of Dubai.
Notable feeder markets for San Francisco encompass travelers from these locations and points of origin in Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Jordan, Iran, and Bangladesh.
Emirates serves a diverse range of traveler segments, catering to leisure and corporate travelers, as well as students pursuing higher education abroad.
The airline continues its commitment to supporting local industries and businesses by transporting cargo from San Francisco to destinations across its global network.
Leveraging its expansive cargo network and cutting-edge facilities, Emirates SkyCargo plays a crucial role in facilitating the seamless transportation of goods, fostering export opportunities, and stimulating economic development in the countries it serves.
Emirates’ flights have carried over 32,000 tonnes of cargo from San Francisco, encompassing a diverse range of exported commodities, from perishable items like fresh berries and wine to computer network equipment.
Noteworthy among the commodities frequently imported into San Francisco are textile and apparel, leather goods, vehicle and ship parts, and perishable items, amounting to more than 12,000 tonnes over the span of 15 years.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News.
The post Emirates Marks 15 Years of Flights to San Francisco appeared first on Aviation A2Z.