I showered at 35,000 feet, drank $1,500 cognac at the onboard bar, and took a helicopter home to Manhattan - all for less than the cost of a domestic first-class ticket. Here's how I turned 102,000 credit card points into a $10,000 Emirates First Class experience of a lifetime.
There are certain experiences in the world of luxury travel that transcend mere transportation and become bucket list adventures in their own right. Emirates First Class stands firmly at the peak of these aspirations, sharing rarefied air with private aviation while remaining achievable through the clever use of points and miles. Today, I'm thrilled to share my experience checking this legendary product off my own travel bucket list.
For my inaugural Emirates First Class journey, I specifically chose their Milan (MXP) to New York (JFK) route – a special "fifth freedom" flight that allows Emirates to operate between two foreign countries. While Emirates also operates a fifth freedom route between Newark (EWR) and Athens (ATH) on their Boeing 777, I deliberately opted for the A380 service from Milan for several compelling reasons.
First, the A380 itself is a bucket list item – this magnificent double-decker aircraft is slowly being retired by airlines worldwide, and I wanted to experience this engineering marvel while I still could. More importantly, Emirates' A380 comes equipped with their legendary shower suites, a feature absent on their 777 fleet. The opportunity to shower at 40,000 feet? That's the kind of over-the-top luxury that makes Emirates First Class truly special.
What makes this MXP-JFK route particularly appealing to points and miles enthusiasts is that departing from Europe results in dramatically lower taxes and fees compared to flights originating in Dubai. While you won't get access to Emirates' renowned First Class lounge in Dubai (DXB), the potential savings – up to 90% lower than flying from the UAE – make this route an exceptional sweet spot for experiencing one of aviation's finest products.
Join me as I detail every moment of this incredible journey, from the champagne service to the shower suite, and everything in between. For seasoned AwardTravel readers, you know this isn't just another flight review – this is a deep dive into one of the holy grails of award travel.
The journey all started arriving at Milan Airport Terminal One. I arrived via the MIlpensa Express, which is a train service from Milan central station to MXP that took about 45 minutes. Once you arrived at MXP, it was just a short walk and a long escalator and voila you were at departures.
As I did a bit of shopping in Milan, I had to stop by the Global Blue tax refund station. When I arrived, just below check in area 18, there was no line to use one of the automated Kiosks, and it was incredibly easy to claim my tax refund.
Emirates operates out of check in area 18 at MXP, and has dedicated check in lines depending on your class of service. Today, I was using the First Class line, although, I might have been better served using one of the business class lines as there was one couple ahead of me in the first class lines, and I wasn't summoned over to the open representative working the business class lane.
Departing MXP, Emirates First and Business class passengers get access to the fast-track security lane called ViaMilano FastTrack. While I'm not sure exactly how much time this saved me, there didn't seem to be a line for the regular security area. Nonetheless, I didn't interact with another passenger as I was going through fast-track suffice it to say, it was empty.
The final step when leaving the EU is to go through a passport check to leave the Shengen Zone. Unfortunately, there is no fast-track or priority lane here, but thankfully, there wasn't a line when I went through.
After what seemed like an endless walk through a high-end luxury shopping mall (one that would feel at home in downtown Milan rather than an airport), I finally arrived at the Emirates Lounge at MXP. The lounge is located up an escalator near gate B59 in Terminal One.
The lounge welcomes all Emirates First and Business Class passengers with same-day departing flights. Emirates Gold and Platinum members can also access it with some restrictions, while economy passengers can purchase day passes for $155 per person.
My verdict? Impressed. While I'm accustomed to cookie-cutter lounges in the US (think Amex Centurion or Delta SkyClubs), the Emirates lounge offered a refreshing departure from the usual. The expansive space features abundant seating, desktop computers, two buffets, and a well-stocked self-service bar. Though I didn't sample the food (saving my appetite for the flight), the all-Halal menu looked quite appealing.
If I had one critique, it would be the absence of dedicated First Class areas or amenities. Typically, international First Class lounges pull out all the stops – offering made-to-order dining, massages, shoe-shine services, and laundry facilities. However, this is somewhat understandable given that MXP isn't Emirates' hub.
Emirates operates two gates in Milan with direct lounge access for premium passengers. Approximately 30 minutes before our scheduled departure, a boarding announcement echoed through the lounge. While First and Business Class passengers boarded simultaneously without priority distinction, I managed to secure my position at the front of the line.
Following the First Class signage, I ascended via the upper jetbridge, which connected to the forward door of the Airbus A380. The cabin crew extended a warm welcome, and the purser personally escorted me to my suite.
She offered a comprehensive overview of both the seat features and the service schedule, along with the customary pre-departure beverage. I accepted her suggestion of champagne, and she promptly returned with a bottle of 2004 Dom Perignon Plénitude 2, accompanied by a selection of warm nuts.
Though not assigned to one of Emirates' newer A380 configurations, I found myself in their legacy First Class cabin, situated at the front of the upper deck. The cabin features 14 suites arranged in a 1-2-1 layout, with four rows along the windows and three in the middle section. The center suites naturally cater to traveling couples, while window positions - like mine - are ideal for solo travelers.
Each suite is remarkably spacious, equipped with motorized sliding doors, a dedicated coat storage, ample space for carry-on luggage and personal items, a generous tray table, and an exceptionally wide seat. Most impressively, at 6'4", this was the first aircraft where I couldn't touch the suite's front wall with my extended legs - a testament to its extraordinary dimensions.
The comfort level is exceptional, with a mattress pad, multiple pillows, and plush blankets awaiting each guest. The attentive cabin crew will gladly prepare your bed upon request, which I took advantage of before heading to the shower.
The culinary experience on Emirates First Class stands as a highlight of an already exceptional journey. Their "Dine on Demand" concept offers complete flexibility in meal timing and selection. To fully appreciate this offering, I carefully planned two dining experiences throughout my flight.
A few minutes prior to takeoff, the purser came through the cabin and handed each passenger a padded menu that featured the food & drink selection for the flight.
I commenced my first meal service approximately an hour after takeoff, beginning with Caviar, followed by Chicken Consommé, Chicken Mandi, and concluding with Chocolate Panna Cotta. A key distinction between First and Business Class lies in the service style - while Business Class typically presents meals on one or two trays, First Class embraces a fine dining approach with courses presented individually, allowing proper pacing between dishes.
The service began with warm bread, accompanied by butter and oil. Emirates' signature unlimited caviar service remains unmatched, presented traditionally with finely diced onion, chives, grated egg, sour cream, and lemon, alongside melba toast and blinis - a truly exceptional offering. The chicken consommé, featuring delicate chicken dumplings reminiscent of miniature matzo balls, was delightful though slightly under-seasoned, perhaps due to the well-documented effect of altitude on taste perception. The Chicken Mandi proved a standout, delivering bold, complex spicing. While competently prepared, the chocolate panna cotta was unremarkable.
For my second meal service, I revisited the caviar service, followed by Grilled Sweet Potato, Grilled Beef Filet (my personal benchmark for airline cuisine), and another chocolate panna cotta. The sweet potato dish, served cold in a salad-style preparation, was adequate but unmemorable. The beef filet, however, impressed with its tenderness and precise cooking, ranking as the finest I've experienced at altitude - though I would have preferred it slightly rarer, as it arrived medium-rare plus rather than the requested medium-rare.
Emirates' beverage program is renowned for its comprehensive selection of cocktails, wines, champagnes, and spirits. The First Class cabin particularly distinguishes itself with unlimited pours of Dom Pérignon champagne and Hennessy Paradis cognac - the latter commanding a retail price exceeding $1,500 per bottle. With an eye toward maximizing the value of this premium offering, I focused my attention on these two exceptional beverages.
The flight featured two distinctive Dom Pérignon vintages: the 2004 Plénitude 2 and the 2015 vintage. While the Plénitude 2 proved superior, its availability was unfortunately limited. Despite requesting a second glass during my first meal service, I learned that my pre-departure pour would be my only taste of this exceptional champagne, as supplies had already been depleted shortly after takeoff.
When the cabin lights dim during cruise, the ceiling comes alive with twinkling embedded stars - an enchanting design touch that adds to the cabin's ambiance. At the rear of the upper deck, First and Business Class passengers have access to a full-service bar. Despite reading One Mile At A Time's suggestion to visit during Business Class meal service to avoid socializing, I found the drink cart blocking the aisle and opted to wait until mid-flight.
This timing proved serendipitous, as I met a Milanese Lufthansa pilot whose fiancée was working as cabin crew on our flight. As we discussed his upcoming first visit to New York - my hometown and favorite city - they graciously shared a bottle of Hennessy Paradis. While the onboard bar concept might seem theatrical to some, it created a unique opportunity for genuine connection that I'd never experienced at 35,000 feet. While certainly gimmick-y, it was a welcome one.
Showering at 35,000 feet remains one of aviation's most unique experiences. While arguably theatrical, it's an undeniably remarkable amenity that I'll eagerly seek out on future flights.
The A380's First Class cabin features two "Spa" suites positioned adjacent to the forward staircase, which leads down to Premium Economy and the flight deck. A lesser-known detail: the purser's office is discreetly tucked beneath these stairs. Between the shower suites, atop the staircase, sits a self-service bar stocked with miniature airplane bottles, full-size spirits, and an assortment of snacks. Dedicated attendants maintain these spa facilities, meticulously preparing the space between each use.
While shower reservations are typically necessary during peak times - shortly after takeoff or before landing - I opted for a mid-flight slot, eliminating the need for advance booking. Each guest is allotted 25 minutes in the spa suite, with five minutes of running water in the shower. I utilized this time leisurely, attending to grooming, making use of the facilities, and enjoying the shower itself. The heated floors add a touch of luxury to the experience.
The suite comes generously equipped with Voya amenities, including shampoo and conditioner, available for both use and keeping. While the water temperature was excellent, the pressure was predictably modest. At 6'4", I found myself at eye level with the shower head - manageable for me but potentially challenging for taller passengers.
My session included an unexpected bout of turbulence, prompting a cautionary knock from the shower attendant. Experiencing turbulence while showering at altitude was surreal, though safety features like grab bars and a seated option (albeit without a seatbelt) provided necessary security during the rough air.
While international carriers typically outshine their U.S. counterparts in service quality, Emirates is known for some inconsistency in this regard. My experience, though not exceptional by Emirates' standards, still substantially exceeded typical industry benchmarks.
My primary flight attendant maintained attentiveness throughout the flight, though occasionally displayed subtle signs of resistance to certain requests - a raised eyebrow at my popcorn order and a hint of reluctance when I requested a second meal service three and a half hours before landing. Despite these minor moments, she maintained a consistently pleasant demeanor.
The broader crew provided some truly memorable interactions. The purser generously shared thirty minutes of her time discussing aviation and her personal journey with the airline. Several other First Class crew members enthusiastically shared their anticipation about their first visit to New York. One particularly memorable encounter was with a Tunisian flight attendant who proudly shared photos of his family and spoke warmly of his niece's dream to visit NYC.
The crew's handling of my specific nut allergy deserves particular mention. While they provided the standard liability disclaimer regarding absolute nut-free guarantees, they demonstrated genuine concern and took comprehensive precautions to ensure my comfort and safety throughout the flight.
Our arrival at JFK proved bittersweet - landing over an hour ahead of schedule only to find our gate not yet ready. After reaching our final position, I realized I should change out of my Emirates pajamas before heading into Manhattan. This last-minute wardrobe adjustment made me one of the final premium cabin passengers to deplane.
Global Entry proved remarkably efficient; without checked baggage, I cleared customs and reached landside within 12 minutes of deplaning. However, our early arrival presented an unexpected logistical challenge. I had pre-arranged a Blade helicopter transfer from JFK to Manhattan's West 30th Street Heliport (JRA) based on our scheduled arrival time. When I contacted Blade about my early arrival, they initially suggested I might need to wait an hour at their FBO. I briefly considered defaulting to an Uber, which would have been faster than waiting for my scheduled helicopter slot and potentially more economical from the main terminal.
Nevertheless, Blade dispatched their car, and I decided to assess my options upon reaching their facility. Here's an insider tip for Blade passengers: request the Maybach for ground transfers and ask for the helicopter's front seat, which typically operates on a first-come basis. Unexpectedly, my Maybach driver informed me they were holding the earlier helicopter departure for my arrival. True to his word, upon reaching the FBO, I was immediately escorted with my luggage to the waiting helicopter. Within minutes, I was airborne, touching down in Manhattan just five minutes later, leaving only a brief ten-minute Uber ride home.
What started as a trip to Munich to watch the New York Giants play (ahem, I mean break my heart), transformed into an opportunity to check off a major aviation bucket list item. I ultimately booked this incredible experience for 102,000 Emirates Skywards Miles (transferred directly from American Express Membership Rewards) plus $143.03 in taxes and fees. This same itinerary was selling for $9,775.40 in First Flex Plus fare class, representing an astronomical redemption value of 9.44 cents per point – my all-time best redemption, just edging out the 9.20 cents per point I achieved on my LATAM business class flight last year.
Originally, my plan was to catch Lufthansa First Class home – either on their A380 from Munich or one of their retiring 747-800s from Frankfurt, with the added bonus of experiencing their legendary First Class Terminal. As many aviation enthusiasts know, Lufthansa typically releases First Class award space to partners only 3-5 days before departure. I was prepared to extend my stay in Munich indefinitely, burning Hyatt points while waiting for that elusive LH First availability.
While monitoring Lufthansa availability, I decided to cast a wider net and set up alerts on Seats.Aero for all First Class flights from Europe to NYC (within one day of my preferred date). Though British Airways First was on my radar as a backup option, Emirates wasn't even on my consideration list. Then, about a month before departure, the unexpected happened – Emirates First Class availability appeared on the MXP-JFK route.
While many aviation enthusiasts dream of flying Emirates First Class from Dubai (mainly for access to their spectacular First Class lounge in DXB), the numbers told a compelling story. Awards leaving Dubai bound for the United States cost a steep 160,000 Skywards miles plus over $1,000 in taxes and fees, with availability being notably scarce, especially far in advance. The math was clear: sacrificing the DXB First Class lounge experience in exchange for saving 58,000 miles and nearly $900 in fees made this an exceptional value proposition. For a bucket list experience like Emirates First Class, finding it at this price point was too good to pass up.
I booked my Blade Helicopter transfer through my 4-one way Blade credits that comes with my JetBlue Mosaic 4 status. These allow you to book Blade in the Plus fare (although I noticed a technical glitch which allows you to book the Max Fare, allowing for a 65 lbs luggage allowance).
After experiencing Emirates First Class, it's clear why this product maintains its legendary status in the world of luxury travel. While certain aspects fell short of perfection - notably some service inconsistencies and the rapid depletion of the premium Dom Pérignon Plénitude 2 - these minor shortcomings hardly detract from what remains an extraordinary aviation experience.
The highlights were numerous and memorable: unlimited caviar service, showering at altitude, the sociable atmosphere of the onboard bar, and the sheer spaciousness of the suite itself. The combination of these elements creates something that transcends mere transportation, delivering instead a genuine bucket list experience that aviation enthusiasts dream about.
At 102,000 Emirates Skywards Miles plus $143.03 in taxes and fees - versus the cash price of $9,775.40 - this fifth freedom route from Milan to New York represents an exceptional sweet spot in the Emirates award chart. While you sacrifice access to Emirates' renowned Dubai First Class lounge, the dramatic reduction in both miles required and taxes/fees makes this particular routing an compelling proposition for experiencing one of aviation's finest products.
For those aspiring to cross Emirates First Class off their travel bucket list, I wholeheartedly recommend this specific route. The combination of value, experience, and convenience makes it an ideal way to sample this iconic product without breaking the bank - or your points balance. While the product may not be absolutely perfect, it delivers precisely the kind of over-the-top luxury experience that makes award travel so addictively compelling. Paired with a Blade helicopter transfer to Manhattan, this might just be the most spectacular - and surprisingly attainable - way to return home from Europe.
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There are certain experiences in the world of luxury travel that transcend mere transportation and become bucket list adventures in their own right. Emirates First Class stands firmly at the peak of these aspirations, sharing rarefied air with private aviation while remaining achievable through the clever use of points and miles. Today, I'm thrilled to share my experience checking this legendary product off my own travel bucket list.
For my inaugural Emirates First Class journey, I specifically chose their Milan (MXP) to New York (JFK) route – a special "fifth freedom" flight that allows Emirates to operate between two foreign countries. While Emirates also operates a fifth freedom route between Newark (EWR) and Athens (ATH) on their Boeing 777, I deliberately opted for the A380 service from Milan for several compelling reasons.
First, the A380 itself is a bucket list item – this magnificent double-decker aircraft is slowly being retired by airlines worldwide, and I wanted to experience this engineering marvel while I still could. More importantly, Emirates' A380 comes equipped with their legendary shower suites, a feature absent on their 777 fleet. The opportunity to shower at 40,000 feet? That's the kind of over-the-top luxury that makes Emirates First Class truly special.
What makes this MXP-JFK route particularly appealing to points and miles enthusiasts is that departing from Europe results in dramatically lower taxes and fees compared to flights originating in Dubai. While you won't get access to Emirates' renowned First Class lounge in Dubai (DXB), the potential savings – up to 90% lower than flying from the UAE – make this route an exceptional sweet spot for experiencing one of aviation's finest products.
Join me as I detail every moment of this incredible journey, from the champagne service to the shower suite, and everything in between. For seasoned AwardTravel readers, you know this isn't just another flight review – this is a deep dive into one of the holy grails of award travel.
The journey all started arriving at Milan Airport Terminal One. I arrived via the MIlpensa Express, which is a train service from Milan central station to MXP that took about 45 minutes. Once you arrived at MXP, it was just a short walk and a long escalator and voila you were at departures.
As I did a bit of shopping in Milan, I had to stop by the Global Blue tax refund station. When I arrived, just below check in area 18, there was no line to use one of the automated Kiosks, and it was incredibly easy to claim my tax refund.
Emirates operates out of check in area 18 at MXP, and has dedicated check in lines depending on your class of service. Today, I was using the First Class line, although, I might have been better served using one of the business class lines as there was one couple ahead of me in the first class lines, and I wasn't summoned over to the open representative working the business class lane.
Departing MXP, Emirates First and Business class passengers get access to the fast-track security lane called ViaMilano FastTrack. While I'm not sure exactly how much time this saved me, there didn't seem to be a line for the regular security area. Nonetheless, I didn't interact with another passenger as I was going through fast-track suffice it to say, it was empty.
The final step when leaving the EU is to go through a passport check to leave the Shengen Zone. Unfortunately, there is no fast-track or priority lane here, but thankfully, there wasn't a line when I went through.
After what seemed like an endless walk through a high-end luxury shopping mall (one that would feel at home in downtown Milan rather than an airport), I finally arrived at the Emirates Lounge at MXP. The lounge is located up an escalator near gate B59 in Terminal One.
The lounge welcomes all Emirates First and Business Class passengers with same-day departing flights. Emirates Gold and Platinum members can also access it with some restrictions, while economy passengers can purchase day passes for $155 per person.
My verdict? Impressed. While I'm accustomed to cookie-cutter lounges in the US (think Amex Centurion or Delta SkyClubs), the Emirates lounge offered a refreshing departure from the usual. The expansive space features abundant seating, desktop computers, two buffets, and a well-stocked self-service bar. Though I didn't sample the food (saving my appetite for the flight), the all-Halal menu looked quite appealing.
If I had one critique, it would be the absence of dedicated First Class areas or amenities. Typically, international First Class lounges pull out all the stops – offering made-to-order dining, massages, shoe-shine services, and laundry facilities. However, this is somewhat understandable given that MXP isn't Emirates' hub.
Emirates operates two gates in Milan with direct lounge access for premium passengers. Approximately 30 minutes before our scheduled departure, a boarding announcement echoed through the lounge. While First and Business Class passengers boarded simultaneously without priority distinction, I managed to secure my position at the front of the line.
Following the First Class signage, I ascended via the upper jetbridge, which connected to the forward door of the Airbus A380. The cabin crew extended a warm welcome, and the purser personally escorted me to my suite.
She offered a comprehensive overview of both the seat features and the service schedule, along with the customary pre-departure beverage. I accepted her suggestion of champagne, and she promptly returned with a bottle of 2004 Dom Perignon Plénitude 2, accompanied by a selection of warm nuts.
Though not assigned to one of Emirates' newer A380 configurations, I found myself in their legacy First Class cabin, situated at the front of the upper deck. The cabin features 14 suites arranged in a 1-2-1 layout, with four rows along the windows and three in the middle section. The center suites naturally cater to traveling couples, while window positions - like mine - are ideal for solo travelers.
Each suite is remarkably spacious, equipped with motorized sliding doors, a dedicated coat storage, ample space for carry-on luggage and personal items, a generous tray table, and an exceptionally wide seat. Most impressively, at 6'4", this was the first aircraft where I couldn't touch the suite's front wall with my extended legs - a testament to its extraordinary dimensions.
The comfort level is exceptional, with a mattress pad, multiple pillows, and plush blankets awaiting each guest. The attentive cabin crew will gladly prepare your bed upon request, which I took advantage of before heading to the shower.
The culinary experience on Emirates First Class stands as a highlight of an already exceptional journey. Their "Dine on Demand" concept offers complete flexibility in meal timing and selection. To fully appreciate this offering, I carefully planned two dining experiences throughout my flight.
A few minutes prior to takeoff, the purser came through the cabin and handed each passenger a padded menu that featured the food & drink selection for the flight.
I commenced my first meal service approximately an hour after takeoff, beginning with Caviar, followed by Chicken Consommé, Chicken Mandi, and concluding with Chocolate Panna Cotta. A key distinction between First and Business Class lies in the service style - while Business Class typically presents meals on one or two trays, First Class embraces a fine dining approach with courses presented individually, allowing proper pacing between dishes.
The service began with warm bread, accompanied by butter and oil. Emirates' signature unlimited caviar service remains unmatched, presented traditionally with finely diced onion, chives, grated egg, sour cream, and lemon, alongside melba toast and blinis - a truly exceptional offering. The chicken consommé, featuring delicate chicken dumplings reminiscent of miniature matzo balls, was delightful though slightly under-seasoned, perhaps due to the well-documented effect of altitude on taste perception. The Chicken Mandi proved a standout, delivering bold, complex spicing. While competently prepared, the chocolate panna cotta was unremarkable.
For my second meal service, I revisited the caviar service, followed by Grilled Sweet Potato, Grilled Beef Filet (my personal benchmark for airline cuisine), and another chocolate panna cotta. The sweet potato dish, served cold in a salad-style preparation, was adequate but unmemorable. The beef filet, however, impressed with its tenderness and precise cooking, ranking as the finest I've experienced at altitude - though I would have preferred it slightly rarer, as it arrived medium-rare plus rather than the requested medium-rare.
Emirates' beverage program is renowned for its comprehensive selection of cocktails, wines, champagnes, and spirits. The First Class cabin particularly distinguishes itself with unlimited pours of Dom Pérignon champagne and Hennessy Paradis cognac - the latter commanding a retail price exceeding $1,500 per bottle. With an eye toward maximizing the value of this premium offering, I focused my attention on these two exceptional beverages.
The flight featured two distinctive Dom Pérignon vintages: the 2004 Plénitude 2 and the 2015 vintage. While the Plénitude 2 proved superior, its availability was unfortunately limited. Despite requesting a second glass during my first meal service, I learned that my pre-departure pour would be my only taste of this exceptional champagne, as supplies had already been depleted shortly after takeoff.
When the cabin lights dim during cruise, the ceiling comes alive with twinkling embedded stars - an enchanting design touch that adds to the cabin's ambiance. At the rear of the upper deck, First and Business Class passengers have access to a full-service bar. Despite reading One Mile At A Time's suggestion to visit during Business Class meal service to avoid socializing, I found the drink cart blocking the aisle and opted to wait until mid-flight.
This timing proved serendipitous, as I met a Milanese Lufthansa pilot whose fiancée was working as cabin crew on our flight. As we discussed his upcoming first visit to New York - my hometown and favorite city - they graciously shared a bottle of Hennessy Paradis. While the onboard bar concept might seem theatrical to some, it created a unique opportunity for genuine connection that I'd never experienced at 35,000 feet. While certainly gimmick-y, it was a welcome one.
Showering at 35,000 feet remains one of aviation's most unique experiences. While arguably theatrical, it's an undeniably remarkable amenity that I'll eagerly seek out on future flights.
The A380's First Class cabin features two "Spa" suites positioned adjacent to the forward staircase, which leads down to Premium Economy and the flight deck. A lesser-known detail: the purser's office is discreetly tucked beneath these stairs. Between the shower suites, atop the staircase, sits a self-service bar stocked with miniature airplane bottles, full-size spirits, and an assortment of snacks. Dedicated attendants maintain these spa facilities, meticulously preparing the space between each use.
While shower reservations are typically necessary during peak times - shortly after takeoff or before landing - I opted for a mid-flight slot, eliminating the need for advance booking. Each guest is allotted 25 minutes in the spa suite, with five minutes of running water in the shower. I utilized this time leisurely, attending to grooming, making use of the facilities, and enjoying the shower itself. The heated floors add a touch of luxury to the experience.
The suite comes generously equipped with Voya amenities, including shampoo and conditioner, available for both use and keeping. While the water temperature was excellent, the pressure was predictably modest. At 6'4", I found myself at eye level with the shower head - manageable for me but potentially challenging for taller passengers.
My session included an unexpected bout of turbulence, prompting a cautionary knock from the shower attendant. Experiencing turbulence while showering at altitude was surreal, though safety features like grab bars and a seated option (albeit without a seatbelt) provided necessary security during the rough air.
While international carriers typically outshine their U.S. counterparts in service quality, Emirates is known for some inconsistency in this regard. My experience, though not exceptional by Emirates' standards, still substantially exceeded typical industry benchmarks.
My primary flight attendant maintained attentiveness throughout the flight, though occasionally displayed subtle signs of resistance to certain requests - a raised eyebrow at my popcorn order and a hint of reluctance when I requested a second meal service three and a half hours before landing. Despite these minor moments, she maintained a consistently pleasant demeanor.
The broader crew provided some truly memorable interactions. The purser generously shared thirty minutes of her time discussing aviation and her personal journey with the airline. Several other First Class crew members enthusiastically shared their anticipation about their first visit to New York. One particularly memorable encounter was with a Tunisian flight attendant who proudly shared photos of his family and spoke warmly of his niece's dream to visit NYC.
The crew's handling of my specific nut allergy deserves particular mention. While they provided the standard liability disclaimer regarding absolute nut-free guarantees, they demonstrated genuine concern and took comprehensive precautions to ensure my comfort and safety throughout the flight.
Our arrival at JFK proved bittersweet - landing over an hour ahead of schedule only to find our gate not yet ready. After reaching our final position, I realized I should change out of my Emirates pajamas before heading into Manhattan. This last-minute wardrobe adjustment made me one of the final premium cabin passengers to deplane.
Global Entry proved remarkably efficient; without checked baggage, I cleared customs and reached landside within 12 minutes of deplaning. However, our early arrival presented an unexpected logistical challenge. I had pre-arranged a Blade helicopter transfer from JFK to Manhattan's West 30th Street Heliport (JRA) based on our scheduled arrival time. When I contacted Blade about my early arrival, they initially suggested I might need to wait an hour at their FBO. I briefly considered defaulting to an Uber, which would have been faster than waiting for my scheduled helicopter slot and potentially more economical from the main terminal.
Nevertheless, Blade dispatched their car, and I decided to assess my options upon reaching their facility. Here's an insider tip for Blade passengers: request the Maybach for ground transfers and ask for the helicopter's front seat, which typically operates on a first-come basis. Unexpectedly, my Maybach driver informed me they were holding the earlier helicopter departure for my arrival. True to his word, upon reaching the FBO, I was immediately escorted with my luggage to the waiting helicopter. Within minutes, I was airborne, touching down in Manhattan just five minutes later, leaving only a brief ten-minute Uber ride home.
What started as a trip to Munich to watch the New York Giants play (ahem, I mean break my heart), transformed into an opportunity to check off a major aviation bucket list item. I ultimately booked this incredible experience for 102,000 Emirates Skywards Miles (transferred directly from American Express Membership Rewards) plus $143.03 in taxes and fees. This same itinerary was selling for $9,775.40 in First Flex Plus fare class, representing an astronomical redemption value of 9.44 cents per point – my all-time best redemption, just edging out the 9.20 cents per point I achieved on my LATAM business class flight last year.
Originally, my plan was to catch Lufthansa First Class home – either on their A380 from Munich or one of their retiring 747-800s from Frankfurt, with the added bonus of experiencing their legendary First Class Terminal. As many aviation enthusiasts know, Lufthansa typically releases First Class award space to partners only 3-5 days before departure. I was prepared to extend my stay in Munich indefinitely, burning Hyatt points while waiting for that elusive LH First availability.
While monitoring Lufthansa availability, I decided to cast a wider net and set up alerts on Seats.Aero for all First Class flights from Europe to NYC (within one day of my preferred date). Though British Airways First was on my radar as a backup option, Emirates wasn't even on my consideration list. Then, about a month before departure, the unexpected happened – Emirates First Class availability appeared on the MXP-JFK route.
While many aviation enthusiasts dream of flying Emirates First Class from Dubai (mainly for access to their spectacular First Class lounge in DXB), the numbers told a compelling story. Awards leaving Dubai bound for the United States cost a steep 160,000 Skywards miles plus over $1,000 in taxes and fees, with availability being notably scarce, especially far in advance. The math was clear: sacrificing the DXB First Class lounge experience in exchange for saving 58,000 miles and nearly $900 in fees made this an exceptional value proposition. For a bucket list experience like Emirates First Class, finding it at this price point was too good to pass up.
I booked my Blade Helicopter transfer through my 4-one way Blade credits that comes with my JetBlue Mosaic 4 status. These allow you to book Blade in the Plus fare (although I noticed a technical glitch which allows you to book the Max Fare, allowing for a 65 lbs luggage allowance).
After experiencing Emirates First Class, it's clear why this product maintains its legendary status in the world of luxury travel. While certain aspects fell short of perfection - notably some service inconsistencies and the rapid depletion of the premium Dom Pérignon Plénitude 2 - these minor shortcomings hardly detract from what remains an extraordinary aviation experience.
The highlights were numerous and memorable: unlimited caviar service, showering at altitude, the sociable atmosphere of the onboard bar, and the sheer spaciousness of the suite itself. The combination of these elements creates something that transcends mere transportation, delivering instead a genuine bucket list experience that aviation enthusiasts dream about.
At 102,000 Emirates Skywards Miles plus $143.03 in taxes and fees - versus the cash price of $9,775.40 - this fifth freedom route from Milan to New York represents an exceptional sweet spot in the Emirates award chart. While you sacrifice access to Emirates' renowned Dubai First Class lounge, the dramatic reduction in both miles required and taxes/fees makes this particular routing an compelling proposition for experiencing one of aviation's finest products.
For those aspiring to cross Emirates First Class off their travel bucket list, I wholeheartedly recommend this specific route. The combination of value, experience, and convenience makes it an ideal way to sample this iconic product without breaking the bank - or your points balance. While the product may not be absolutely perfect, it delivers precisely the kind of over-the-top luxury experience that makes award travel so addictively compelling. Paired with a Blade helicopter transfer to Manhattan, this might just be the most spectacular - and surprisingly attainable - way to return home from Europe.
