Following the recent deployment of the retrofitted Boeing 777 to both Cape Town and Johannesburg, Emirates conducted a tour of the updated aircraft. This model features next-generation cabins, including a new Premium Economy Cabin, marking South Africa’s first encounter with this class. Key figures from the aviation and tourism sectors attended the event, like Wrenelle Stander, CEO of Wesgro, and Poppy Khoza, Director General of the South African Civil Aviation Authority, alongside Rashid Alardha, Emirates’ Vice President for Commercial Operations in Sub-Saharan Africa, and Afzal Parambil, Emirates Regional Manager for Southern Africa. Afzal mentioned, “As we celebrate three decades of service to South Africa, our commitment to bring the latest and greatest to the market remains strong. The retrofitted Boeing 777, our first in Africa, enhances the passenger experience by introducing the Premium Economy section and revitalizing the Business Class experience.” The renovated four-class Boeing 777 boasts new aesthetics and features including upgraded seats in various classes, highlighting the Premium Economy cabin’s luxurious offerings and emphasis on comfort. Emirates’ extensive retrofit program began in November 2022, encompassing 219 aircraft aimed at improving the overall passenger experience.