Dubai AirshowEmirates to retrofit 60 A380s and 51 Boeing 777s starting August 2026
Emirates will begin the next phase of its fleet retrofit program in August 2026, targeting 60 Airbus A380s and 51 Boeing 777s for comprehensive cabin upgrades.
The Dubai-based carrier aims to modernize its long-haul fleet by introducing new onboard products, an upgraded Panasonic Astrova entertainment system, and enhanced Starlink Wi-Fi connectivity. The program, originally set for 120 aircraft, now covers 219, with 76 aircraft already completed.
The retrofit includes new seat designs for all classes. Business class on the A380s will feature leather seats inspired by the Safran S Lounge model used in Emirates’ A350 fleet, while economy cabins will receive Safran Z400 seats designed for long-haul operations.
A redesigned onboard lounge will be installed on the 60 A380s as part of the program. The cabin refurbishment is scheduled to take approximately 22 days per A380 and 18 days per 777.
Passengers will also have access to the new Panasonic Astrova platform, which includes 4K OLED HDR10+ displays and spatial audio, supporting Emirates’ focus on passenger experience enhancements.
Retrofit work will proceed in phases, beginning with the A380s in August 2026, as Emirates seeks to maintain product consistency across its widebody fleet.
About the Author
Ricardo Meier
Creator of the website that started in 1996 as a magazine. He also writes on Brazilian websites AUTOO, MOTOO and MetrôCPTM.
