Access For Dubai Lounge to all Skyward Members
In a new turn of events, Emirates has decided to democratize its lounge access for all frequent passengers. Now passengers can pay a little extra fee to access both business class and first class lounges. This can be counted as nothing less than a benediction for low-tier passengers.
Business class and first class tickets buffet pockets substantially more than economy class tickets. A subscription of Emirates Skyward Rewards scheme is required. Passengers travelling in Emirates or Qantas codeshare flight can bring guests along with them. Bringing additional people will warrant extra fee.
Fees for lounge access varies according to the subscription plan of passengers with the airline. Blue-tier Skyward Frequent Flyer members received prices through their mails. According to the email, these passengers will have to pay USD 100 to access business class lounge and USD 200 for First class lounge.
For now, the lounge access is only limited for their Dubai lounge. While corroborating Emirate’s decision, Will Horton, Senior Analyst at Centre for Aviation said, “With a proliferation in the number and quality of pay-as-you-go lounges, it makes sense for Emirates to make a play in this space.”
Lounges at Emirates amalgamate:
- Showers and Spas
- Exotic Dining Options
- Comfy seats
- Private suites
- Bars
Premium economy by 2018: Finding the right Porridge
Emirates has embarked on the journey to find its own balance between luxury and affordability. The void between the prices of Business class and economy class can only be symbolized with a ditch between two mountains.
Premium economy will be equipped with comparatively better seats that offer more legroom to passengers. Along with this, additional amenities will be offered to passengers. Menus will contain more items that were only privy to business class passengers. Goldilocks effect will definitely get their premium economy class more attention.
Countering Competition: Features War
The recent moves by the aviation giant can be seen as a way to counter competition. Airlines are in a war, definitely not a price war. They are endeavoring hard to provide better features on their flights for the same price. United recently rolled out its Polaris business class while Delta will release is revamped Delta One this fall. In addendum to this, Malaysia Airlines has introduced dreamliner seats that have mesmerised their passengers.
The oil prices also play a large role in Emirates’ recent decision. Oil prices have been dwindling for quite a few years. This has lead to a decline in purchasing power of the elites of Middle East. To manage this state of affairs, people have curtailed their travel budget in order to save more. Emirates has smelled an opportunity here and is willing to take it. The airline, along with other middle east airlines like Qatar and Etihad, had abstained from exploring premium economy.
Emirates President Tim Clark mentioned at Dublin, “There’s clear and present evidence that this is something that we too should take seriously.” He also stated that Emirates is looking to adjust according to the demands of customers. Maybe they have come to realise that it is important to give the people what they want.