AN airline has announced it will introduce the world’s largest commercial aircraft to Scottish skies for the first time.
The “iconic” Emirates A380 service – which can carry nearly 500 passengers across its economy, business and first-class sections – will connect Glasgow and Dubai from next spring.
Scottish Transport Secretary Michael Matheson welcomed the move.
He said: "This increase in capacity is a huge vote of confidence in Glasgow Airport and in Scotland as a whole.
"It further strengthens our connectivity with the United Arab Emirates, as well as with markets in Asia, Africa and Australasia which are important for Scottish business and our vital tourism sector."
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The 24-metre-tall plane has an 80-metre wingspan and is complete with 76 fully-flat beds, shower spas and over a dozen first-class suites.
The new service is expected to start operation on April 16 2019 and continue with regular flights throughout the summer season until October.
Glasgow City Council leader Susan Aitken said the introduction of the A380 reinforced Emirates’ “commitment to the entire Glasgow city region”.
She added: "Having two flights out of Dubai – one of the world’s largest hub airports – arriving in the city everyday greatly increases Glasgow’s global connectivity, particularly through Emirates’ worldwide route network, and today’s announcement is another positive step in terms of forging greater business links and increasing visitor access from key emerging markets such as China and India.
Glasgow Airport managing director Mark Johnston stressed the introduction of the A380 would be a key moment in Scottish business.
He said: "The decision by Emirates to introduce the A380 is not only a huge milestone for Glasgow Airport, it marks what is a first in Scottish aviation industry.
"We have forged a valued relationship with Emirates since its inaugural flight in April 2004 and the introduction of Scotland's first-ever scheduled A380 service represents a major vote of confidence in the city.
"We are currently investing in excess of £8 million in our infrastructure to ensure Glasgow Airport is ready to welcome this iconic aircraft when it touches down next April."
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