Emirates Unveils Striking Airbus A380 ‘Grand Slam’ Livery in Melbourne
Dubai-based Emirates Airlines has introduced a vibrant new livery on its Airbus A380-800, celebrating its extensive support for tennis. The design pays homage to the four prestigious Grand Slam tournaments: the Australian Open, Roland-Garros, The Championships – Wimbledon, and the US Open. The aircraft, registered as A6-EUH, began this new chapter with its inaugural flight to Melbourne, coinciding with the commencement of the Australian Open.
Details of the ‘Grand Slam’ Livery
The special livery incorporates elements that represent each Grand Slam event, showcasing their distinctive colors along with tournament logos and a tennis ball emblem. The colors used are:
- Australian Open: Summer Blue
- Roland-Garros: Red-Clay
- Wimbledon: Green and Purple
- US Open: Yellow
This colorful arrangement embodies the essence of each tournament, enhancing the aircraft’s visual appeal while promoting the spirit of sportsmanship and athletic excellence.
Global Reach and Significance
Since its delivery to Emirates on November 19, 2016, A6-EUH has been an important part of the airline’s extensive international network. It previously operated under French registration before joining Emirates. The airline is renowned for its commitment to various global sporting events, making the new livery a fitting tribute to tennis.
Partnerships with Grand Slam Tournaments
Emirates has proudly supported the Australian Open since 2014 and has maintained strong partnerships with other Grand Slam tournaments:
- Roland-Garros: Since 2013
- Wimbledon: Since 2024
- US Open: Since 2012
The airline’s branding is prominently displayed throughout these tournaments, solidifying its status as a leading sponsor in the tennis world.
Operational Fleet and Services
The Airbus A380-800 operates with a capacity of 484 passengers, featuring four classes of service: 14 in First Class, 76 in Business Class, 56 in Premium Economy, and 338 in Economy Class. This aircraft type, known for its spaciousness and comfort, excels in maintaining Emirates’ reputation for excellent service.
Emirates offers multiple daily flights from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Melbourne International Airport (MEL) and serves various Australian cities, including Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth, and Sydney.
Broader Sports Sponsorship
In addition to tennis, Emirates actively sponsors over 60 ATP Tour events and the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. The airline’s commitment extends to diverse sports, including football, rugby, horse racing, golf, cricket, cycling, sailing, and basketball, showcasing a comprehensive approach to global sporting engagement.
The ‘Grand Slam’ livery on Emirates’ Airbus A380 is not just a design; it is a testament to the airline’s ongoing investment in sports and the promotion of sporting excellence on a global scale.
