• Flights

Emirates Upcycles Aircraft Materials into Exclusive Luggage Emirates Upcycles Aircraft Materials into Exclusive Luggage

Following the resounding success of its 2023 debut, the Aircrafted by Emirates collection returns with a limited-edition line of handcrafted luggage and bags. This exclusive 2025 collection, fashioned from upcycled materials salvaged from Emirates’ retrofitted aircraft, presents a unique retail opportunity for travel agents across Africa.

The 167-piece collection, now available at the Emirates Official Store, offers three new trolley bag styles, two trendy backpacks, and two handbags. One handbag notably features repurposed material from the Emirates Captain’s seat. With prices ranging from US\$80 to US\$350, these items are anticipated to sell out quickly, mirroring the previous collection’s success, which generated over US\$17,000 for the Emirates Airline Foundation.

This initiative aligns with Emirates’ broader commitment to sustainability and its significant presence in the African market. The airline serves 22 airports across 17 African countries, operating 161 weekly flights between Dubai and these destinations. Strategic partnerships with African airlines further extend Emirates’ reach, connecting travelers to over 210 regional points. This extensive network positions African travel agents ideally to capitalize on the Aircrafted collection’s appeal.

The upcycled materials used in the collection are sourced from 63 retrofitted A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft, totaling over 30,000 kg of repurposed resources. Aluminum headrests, premium leather from First and Business Class seats, and even sofas from the A380 onboard lounge have been meticulously cleaned, treated, and transformed into these unique pieces. The bags feature new linings, functional zippers, and some even incorporate original Emirates seatbelts as straps.

A dedicated team of 14 Emirates engineers, skilled in aircraft interior repairs, meticulously handcrafts each Aircrafted bag in a specialized workshop at the Emirates Engineering facility in Dubai. The success of the Aircrafted initiative, including the Aircrafted KIDS project, has led to this team’s full-time dedication to upcycling efforts.

The Aircrafted project is part of Emirates’ ongoing multi-billion-dollar fleet retrofit program, launched in August 2022. This ambitious undertaking aims to upgrade the cabins of 219 Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft. The project includes the installation of nearly 4,000 Premium Economy seats, the refurbishment of 728 First Class suites, and the upgrade of over 5,000 Business Class seats.

The Emirates Airline Foundation, the primary beneficiary of Aircrafted proceeds, actively supports numerous projects across Africa. These initiatives focus on improving the lives of disadvantaged children through education, healthcare, and community development. The Foundation’s work aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable tourism and responsible business practices within the African travel sector.

The Aircrafted by Emirates 2025 collection offers more than just unique travel accessories; it represents a tangible expression of Emirates’ commitment to sustainability and its deep engagement with the African continent. For travel agents, this presents a valuable opportunity to promote a product that resonates with environmentally conscious travelers and supports a worthy cause, while also aligning with Emirates’ extensive network and established presence in Africa.

By showcasing the Aircrafted collection, African travel agents can tap into a growing market for sustainable and ethically sourced products. This initiative not only offers a new revenue stream but also strengthens the relationship between Emirates, travel agents, and their clients, fostering a sense of shared values and contributing to a more responsible and impactful travel industry.