TRAVEL TEST

WHAT: Emirates flight EK006 from Heathrow T3 to Dubai in economy. Take off at 10pm land at 8.45am local time – flight time of 6hrs 45mins on an Airbus A380. From £519 return. emirates.com EXPERIENCE: Emirates are not regarded as one of the world’s best and most efficient airlines for nothing. Everything went smoothly, from boarding to take-off and landing.

The cabin crew were lovely and the flight had full drinks and meal services (as well as the inevitable duty free trolley to wake you up just as you’re drifting off).

The 10pm take-off meant eating the first meal quite “late”, but breakfast arrived for the 8.45am arrival local time. Dinner was the standard veggie pasta or chicken curry.

All flights go via Dubai, so the plane was pretty full. Although Airbus is no longer making the A380, Emirates has more than a hundred of these double-decker beasts and they are still a great aircraft to fly on. Even in economy the seats are comfy, with decent legroom. The backseat HD screens are easy to navigate with a huge library of movies to choose from, including a small selection of new releases. There are also loads of TV shows, games, podcasts and music.

The 30kg hold baggage allowance (as opposed to most airlines’ 23kg) is also handy for those who struggle to pack light.

TOP TIP: Download the Emirates app. It really is one of the better airline apps. You can check in online, choose your seats, get the latest Covid info, see what in-flight entertainment there is on your flight, as well as order special meals - vegan, gluten-free etc. Very handy.

COVID INFO: As above via the app or check the Emirates website for their latest requirements.

VERDICT: Emirates flights are ever-reliable, comfortable and friendly. 8/10