Emirates has added Frankfurt to its growing list of A380 destinations.

With the addition of the German financial capital, Emirates now serves 30 global destinations with the A380.

Thierry Antinori, Emirates chief commercial officer, arrived on the launch flight, and explained: “We are proud to fly our A380 to one of the key aviation hubs in Europe.

“The financial capital of Germany continues to be a significant point for us so it is only fitting for us to operate our flagship product to the city.

“Emirates has redefined travel with its A380.

“First and Business Class passengers have access to the Onboard Lounge, which has become a popular gathering place for passengers at 40,000 feet.

“On the ground, they can access our world-class lounges and benefit from Chauffer Drive Services to and from the airport.”

He added: “Deploying larger capacity aircraft like the A380 is fundamental to helping us meet growing passenger demand between this dynamic economic region and the evolving economies of Asia, Africa and the Middle East, through efficient connections via our Dubai hub.

“The positive effects of more inbound tourism from the Middle East, Gulf and Asia-Pacific regions into Frankfurt will also be demonstrated with the arrival of the A380, based on our experience when we introduced the aircraft to Munich.”

Enjoy a time lapse video of the production of the 50th Emirates Airbus A380

With over 500 passengers on board, the inaugural Emirates A380 flight EK45 was led by captain Gaetan Herkens and German first officer Alexander Braun, who proudly waved the regional state flag of Hesse upon arrival.

Stefan Schulte, chairman of the executive board of Fraport, added: “Emirates’ decision to upgrade one of its three daily flights from Frankfurt with an A380 service represents another milestone for Frankfurt Airport.

“We were amongst the very first airports ever to be ready for the Airbus A380.

“The operation of the latest generation of wide-bodied aircraft at our airport further strengthens our role as international air traffic hub.

“We thank Emirates for the long-standing partnership and look forward to daily welcome the airline’s flagship at Frankfurt.”

Emirates’ growing A380 network means travellers from Frankfurt wishing to visit destinations such as Mauritius, Mumbai, Bangkok, Beijing, Shanghai or Sydney, now have the chance to experience a seamless Emirates A380 experience connecting through Dubai.