Emirates has become the first airline to operate the Airbus A380 superjumbo from Gatwick.
The airline runs three daily services between Gatwick and Dubai and will fly the 500-seat double-decker aircraft on its final flight each day.
Scheduled A380 services from Gatwick are seen as important as the airport looks to make best use of what is claimed to be world’s busiest single runway.
It comes at a time that Gatwick is locked in a battle with rival Heathrow over the location of an additional runway to serve the southeast of England.
The Emirates A380 is using a dedicated £6.4 million stand at the North Terminal which was completed last year to accommodate the giant aircraft.
Gatwick chief commercial officer Guy Stephenson said: “Following the strong performance of Emirates’ Dubai routes from Gatwick and increasing passenger demand, we are delighted with the decision to introduce a scheduled A380 service.
“Emirates passengers expect exceptional service and facilities – and the start of A380 services from Gatwick is evidence of the confidence Emirates has in our airport.”
Emirates UK vice president Laurie Berryman said: “It is fitting that Gatwick’s renewed spirit of ambition, as symbolised in their modernisation programme of recent years, will now be joined by Emirates’ own symbol of ambition and connectivity, the world’s largest passenger jet.
“Now, more people in the southeast of England will be able to connect to more destinations and that is great news for holidaymakers and business travellers alike.”