Emirates has extended its South American network by linking Dubai with Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro, further broadening the airline’s reach across the Americas.

Emirates’ inaugural Flight 247 made its first landing at Galeao-Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport in Rio de Janeiro (pictured), where it was initiated by a traditional water cannon salute.

The flight, operated by Argentine captain Marcos Medina, then departed for its first onwards connection to Buenos Aires, where government and airport officials led by Enrique Meyer, the Argentinean minister of tourism, welcomed the Emirates VIP delegation headed by Thierry Antinori, executive vice president - passenger sales worldwide. 

“This new linked service to two of the most economically vibrant cities in South America will not only boost trade ties with the UAE, but will also introduce travellers to Emirates’ route network spanning points across the globe,” said Antinori.

“Emirates will offer customers in Brazil and Argentina the most efficient and comfortable route to the Middle and Far East, including the airline’s four destinations in China and two gateways in Japan, which are key trading partners for both countries,” he added.

The Dubai-Rio de Janeiro-Buenos Aires flight is operated by a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft offering eight First Class Private Suites, 42 lie-flat beds in Business Class and 304 seats in Economy Class.

EK 247 leaves Dubai daily at 07:10 and arrives at Rios Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport at 15:37.

It departs Rio at 17:23, arriving at Buenos Aires Ministro Pistarini International Airport (Ezeiza) at 19:30.

From Buenos Aires, EK 248 departs at 21:30, arriving in Rio at 01:23 the following day.

The aircraft will depart Rio at 03:10, arriving in Dubai at 22:50h.