Emirates is claiming a record surge in bookings from the UK as travellers show a growing appetite for long-haul destinations.
Bookings to Bali are up 40% year-on-year, with Australia, New Zealand, Bangladesh and South Africa all seeing 30% growth.
The most popular long-haul destinations from the UK include the UAE, Thailand, Australia, India, the Maldives and Mauritius.
The Dubai carrier’s forward booking data also shows sustained demand for elevated travel experiences with increases in bookings across its more premium cabins.
The airline’s new premium economy cabin, which offers more legroom, has attracted a 50% year-on-year increase.
This trend is evident in both travel to and from the UK, with premium economy proving especially popular on flights between the UK and Australia, New Zealand and the UAE.
For inbound travel, Australia is seeing the highest number of passenger volumes, followed by the UAE. Malaysia and China have seen year-on-year growth exceeding 100%, while arrivals from Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong have risen by 25%.
Emirates currently operates 133 weekly flights to and from the UK from Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
The airline’s new Airbus A350 has started serving Edinburgh with daily flights to its Dubai hub.
UK divisional vice president Jabr Al-Azeeby said:“People from the UK have huge appetite for exploring other parts of the world and, as this data shows, are increasingly looking further afield for experiences.
“The UK’s deep connections across the Middle East, Asia, and the southern hemisphere continue to drive travel trends and we’re proud to play an important role in helping facilitate that connection while enhancing the journey experience for passengers.
“Launching our latest aircraft with flights to Edinburgh underscores our commitment to the UK and supports our hugely popular 777 and iconic A380 services at our eight hubs across the country.”
As well as helping millions of people travel from the UK every year, Emirates plays an important role in bringing international visitors to the UK.