FLIGHT: EMIRATES BUSINESS CLASS, LONDON GATWICK-DUBAI

THE FLIGHT I flew Business Class on flight EK016 on an Airbus A380.

THE CHECK-IN It was a busy flight but multiple check-in desks were open, with First Class and Business Class passengers also directed to the first available Economy check-in desks. I was grateful for the Premium Security channel (£6 if not flying Business and you want to pay for it).

THE BOARDING Emirates’ spacious lounge is close to a W.H. Smith. Wi-fi was speedy, there were plenty of power sockets and USB ports and a wide range of lunchtime food options included aubergine masala, vegan pasta and Moroccan spiced beef. Boarding was called 30 minutes before scheduled departure. It was a short walk to the gate and access to the plane was via a dedicated Business Class walkway.

THE SEAT Business Class was ‘upstairs’, in a 1 X 2 X 1 configuration. My forward-facing window seat, 23K, was super comfortable and felt very ‘private’. The premium-looking fittings, including leather covers, and the walnut-coloured, mock-wood panelling, reminded me of an executive jet. The seat was fully reclining and, once prone, had none of the bumps and ridges of other business seats. Slightly odd was the thin ‘popper’ mattress that couldn’t be affixed to the bed. For entertainment, a personal fixed (but removable) tablet was synced with the large screen in front, with easy access to a wide range of ICE channels. I found it a bit odd that movies were occasionally interrupted by a short Dubai tourism advert.

THE SERVICE The cabin was full so the drinks service was slow but many passengers filled up their glasses at the on-board lounge at the back of the upper deck, which is exclusively for First and Business Class passengers. Here a cheerful barman was struggling to keep up with requests for espresso martinis and gin and tonics. Lunch was very impressive, with cutlery wrapped in a white cloth napkin. I was disappointed that, although I was in one of the first rows to be served, the ‘Arabic mezze’ starter was already unavailable but the charred sea bass was sensationally good.

THE VERDICT An ultra-relaxed and highly-enjoyable flight with entertainment, food and comfort levels you'd expect, but don’t always find, at a five-star hotel.

THE DETAILS One-way Business Class fares, Gatwick-dubai, from £2,494.95. emirates.com

THE PREMIUMLOOKING FITTINGS... REMINDED ME OF AN

EXECUTIVE JET