Emirates has brought Italy into its broadening A380 network after the launch of a superjumbo service to Rome.

EK097 is now operated with the popular double-decker, bringing an additional 34 per cent capacity on the Dubai-Rome route or an extra 250 seats each day.

“With the A380 forming part of the double daily service to Rome, twice daily flights to Milan and a daily offering into Venice, Italy is becoming an increasingly active market,” said Salem Obaidalla, Emirates’ senior vice president, commercial operations, Europe & Russian Federation.

The airline started flights to Italy in 1992 and the current 35 weekly frequencies contribute to a vibrant US$ 4.6 billion trade relationship between Italy and the UAE, assisted by Emirates SkyCargo ferrying commodities in and out of Italy through Dubai and beyond.

“Operating the A380 out of Rome allows passengers in Italy to enjoy the Emirates’ superjumbo experience all the way to key markets such as Australia, China and Thailand, via our much-admired hub in Dubai, while boosting tourism into Italy,” Obaidalla added.

“The two daily flights that include an A380 from Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport are a further confirmation of the successful relationship between Emirates and Aeroporti di Roma,” said Engineer Lorenzo Lo Presti, chief executive of Aeroporti di Roma, “and validates the airport that serves the capital, which connects to 180 destinations and serves more than 110 airlines, as the first hub in the Mediterranean.

“Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport is the first Italian airport to accommodate for full A380 operational requirements.

“The new loading bridge load is a strategic investment for the airport, as the A380 is the best aircraft to serve key markets operated by Emirates through Dubai.”