Emirates Airlines‘ A380 is currently doing a showcase tour around North America.  We were there to catch the show Live at JFK Airport in New York City on Aug 1, 2008. While there, we took the time to chat with Nigel Page, who is Emirates’ Senior Vice President of Operations for the Americas. Being with Emirates for 15 years, and 20 years with British Airways, Nigel shares his wisdom with us in the video interview. Below, you will also find key talking points in the interview. Enjoy!

How would you differentiate Emirates A380 from Singapore Airlines’ and Qantas’ product?

Geographic advantage – Dubai is located mid-way between Russia and Africa, US East coast and the Far East and of course, Europe and Australia. We will take full advantage of this, once our 58 A380s are in service.
Cabin crew of 130 nationalities – each plane has a crew that speaks over 10 languages between them 

August 1, 2008 is bound to go down as a special day in aviation history. It was the first time the world’s largest passenger jetliner, the Airbus A380, started regular passenger service to the US. It all happened at the JFK Airport in New York City, and we were there to catch it Live!
These are the photos and videos taken Live! at JFK Airport . More analysis coming soon.

Emirates A380 gets a water canon salute at JFK Airport – a historic moment

Here’s a quiz:

1. Which airline tested wi-fi for the first time last week?
2. Which airline will be testing bio-fuels next month?
3. Which airline is the first to have showers in its first class?
4. Which is the first airline that’s going to fly the Boeing 787?
5. Which airline was the first to fly the A380 aircraft?

Almost anyone who’s traveled on an airplane before would be able to answer the last one – Singapore Airlines. But hardly any would be able to answer the other questions. For the curious, American Airlines tested wireless internet last week, Japan Airlines will test bio-fuels, Emirates will have showers on its new A380 flight to New York city and ANA will be the first to fly the 787. Wondering why the huge disparity in awareness? Simply because Singapore Airlines engaged its customers and let the world know that it was doing something new.

Being the first brand to give customers a refreshing, new experience is something to beat the drum about. In turbulent times for the industry like these, airlines should …