First off, Emirates is a modern airline, with modern and well-maintained planes. No crop-dusters or planes with wings creaking during take-off and landing here.
Their "Economy" seats and leg room are the size of other airlines' "Business" class. My six-and-a-half-foot hubby appreciates the heck out of this little reality every time he or we fly with Emirates. The goody bag with socks, sleeping mask, earbuds and the toothbrush/toothpaste combo is highly appreciated during the cross-ocean flights by me and those people who would've otherwise been exposed to my morning breath during an after-flight conversation.
The food didn't wow me too much, but, among the airlines, I would say, it is at the upper end of the... ahem... food chain.
Generally, Emirates flights are not too packed and if you are not happy with your allotted leg room, chances are, you will be able to stretch your bones across two, three, or even (gasp!) four seats, as it is entirely possible you might have a whole row to yourself. Who needs to pay bookoo bucks for the first class when you might very well be able to have more space in the "Economy"?!!! BUT: obviously I am not guaranteeing ANYTHING, so don't come crying to me if you have to 'share' the row with a bunch of strangers. C'est la vie of commercial flying.
Another nice detail is that the cabins of Emirates planes have the night sky illusion going on the upper part of the cabin, which has a very calming effect during long flights and helps (me) doze off more easily. Last time I flew, I did notice mood lighting. I don't know if they just added it, or whether it has been there all along.
And, of course, their service is impeccable and always friendly. In all my times of flying with Emirates, I have not encountered a single gruff or disgruntled Emirates staff member. They are eager to accommodate and happy to assist (Yes, I'm talking to you, United, AA, Southwest, and Delta!).
So if you are floundering between airlines, Emirates should definitely be at the top of your consideration list. read more