Emirates Returns to Paris Air Show 2025, Unveils A350 with Next-Gen Cabins and Deepens Ties to French Aviation
Paris, France – June 19, 2025 — Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has made a resounding return to the Paris Air Show 2025 after a 15-year hiatus, positioning its brand-new Airbus A350 as the centrepiece of its exhibition. The airline’s presence at the 55th edition of the prestigious aerospace event underscores its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and strategic partnerships with France’s aviation industry.
Held at the iconic Le Bourget Airport, the Paris Air Show 2025 welcomed Emirates back with anticipation, as aviation enthusiasts, industry executives, and government stakeholders gathered to witness the airline’s unveiling of its next-generation aircraft.
A350 Takes Center Stage
Emirates showcased one of its newest Airbus A350 aircraft, outfitted with the latest cabin innovations. The widebody jet features a tri-class configuration, offering 32 fully lie-flat Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 layout, 21 spacious Premium Economy seats, and 259 ergonomically designed Economy seats.
The interior upgrades highlight the airline’s focus on passenger comfort and technological advancement. Visitors at the show experienced firsthand the A350’s enhanced cabin lighting system, ultra-fast Wi-Fi, improved seat design, and Emirates’ latest inflight entertainment suite, promising a cinematic experience in the sky. Key design highlights include elevated ceilings, increased storage capacity, and wider aisles — elements aimed at redefining the long-haul passenger experience.
Executive Remarks from Emirates
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, emphasized the symbolic and strategic value of returning to the Paris Air Show. “Our participation marks a new chapter in Emirates’ partnership with France and reflects our continuous investment in cutting-edge aviation technology. France remains a vital hub in our global network, not just for operations but also for aerospace collaboration.”
Clark reiterated the importance of the event as a global stage for aviation excellence and innovation, while reinforcing the carrier’s support of France’s aerospace ecosystem.
Expanding French Operations
Emirates currently operates 21 weekly flights between Dubai and Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), including three daily Airbus A380 services. Additionally, the airline offers daily flights to Nice (NCE) using its A380 fleet and operates Airbus A350 service to Lyon (LYS).
The airline proudly holds the distinction of being the first and only international carrier operating an A380 to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport. Emirates’ consistent presence in France since launching operations in 1985 has significantly contributed to regional tourism, trade, and job creation.
Strategic Investments in France
Over the past three decades, Emirates has invested more than €114 billion (US$130 billion) into the purchase of Airbus aircraft, including A300, A310, A330, A340, A380, and now the A350. These purchases have directly supported jobs and innovation at major French aerospace companies such as Airbus, Safran, and Thales.
In 2023, the airline announced new contracts exceeding €1 billion (US$1.14 billion) with French suppliers. This includes an €896 million (US$1 billion) agreement with Safran Seats for cabin interiors across multiple aircraft types and a €322 million (US$367.5 million) partnership with Thales for its AVANT Up inflight entertainment systems on the A350 fleet.
Emirates continues to source high-performance Michelin aircraft tires, Safran components, and Thales avionics, reflecting the depth of its industrial ties with France.
Wine and Luxury in the Sky
France also serves as Emirates’ leading source for in-flight wine. Bordeaux varietals account for 58% of all red wine served in First and Business Class cabins, reaffirming the airline’s premium positioning and commitment to offering passengers the finest onboard experience.
Economic Impact and Future Fleet
Emirates contributes over €189 million (US$215 million) annually to the French economy through operational spending on fuel, overflight charges, catering, landing fees, hotel accommodation for crew, and marketing efforts. These figures exclude its indirect economic impact through trade facilitation and employment support.
On the cargo front, Emirates SkyCargo continues to play a crucial role in UAE–France trade. The airline operates regular freight rotations connecting Dubai World Central with Paris CDG and Lyon Saint-Exupéry, supporting the movement of pharmaceuticals, perishables, luxury goods, and industrial machinery.
Looking ahead, Emirates is set to receive 58 more A350s, bringing the total fleet to 65 aircraft. By year-end, the airline expects its A350s to serve 17 international destinations, positioning the jet as a core pillar of its medium- and long-haul strategy.
A Vision for the Future
Emirates’ return to the Paris Air Show 2025 symbolizes more than just an exhibition appearance — it represents a deepened commitment to sustainable aviation, luxury passenger experience, and international cooperation.
As the skies evolve with greener technology and smarter cabins, Emirates’ presence at Le Bourget highlights the airline’s readiness to lead the future of global aviation while reinforcing its role as a long-standing partner in France’s economic and industrial landscape
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