Emirates launches luggage made from...

The recycling initiative is part of the carrier’s commitment to sustainability

Emirates is launching a capsule collection of luggage, bags and accessories fashioned from upcycled materials from retrofitted aircraft.

The limited-edition range features a selection of suitcases, backpacks, handbags, cardholders, toiletry bags, belts and even shoes all designed and handmade by Emirates tailors in Dubai in the UAE.

Scheduled for sale in 2024 in Emirates Official Stores, all proceeds will be donated to children in need, via the Emirates Airline Foundation.

A selection of bags and accessories are on display at the Dubai Airshow taking place in Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) from 13 to 17 November 2023 at the Emirates stand.

Offering a chance to own a piece of Middle East aviation history, the materials used to craft the collection have been gathered from the Emirates A380 aircraft and 777 aircraft.

More than 14,000kg of material has been recovered from 16 retrofitted aircraft, from aluminium headrests and leather from couches in the A380 onboard lounge, to seatbelts and fur from the captains' seats. As the project continues, there is scope to recover up to 270kg of leather and 627kg of seat fabric per retrofitted aircraft.

As each piece is made to order, customers may be able to request personalised laser engraving on some exclusive, one-of-a-kind bags, suitcases or document holders. Aviation fans can register their interest on the Emirates Store, but pieces are to be made in limited quantity.

BUILD YOUR OWN TRAVEL BUSINESS. JOIN TRAVEL COUNSELLORS' NEXT EVENT TO FIND OUT HOW

Emirates has a team of 14 Engineering Maintenance Assistants, whose role involves fixing and stitching any tears in the interiors of Emirates vast aircraft fleet. Four of these tailors are currently dedicated full-time to the upcycling initiative, crafting upcycled products and collaborating with suppliers for ideas on how to repurpose various materials.

Emirates divisional senior vice president for engineering Ahmed Safa said: "We knew these materials could be given a second life, because they are originally of very high quality. We challenged our team to be as creative and innovative as possible, and here we are, with our own accessories workshop in Emirates Engineering Centre.

"This initiative is a passion project for our team, and we are immensely proud of how it aligns with both our innovation and sustainability aims, and even better - that all proceeds will benefit worthy causes via the Emirates Airline Foundation.”

For more information, visit www.emirates.com