Three A380 flights to Dubai each week

Emirates, the first airline to operate the Airbus A380 superjumbo through Auckland on scheduled services, will initially operate the giant double-decker aircraft three times a week.

The Emirates A380, noted for features like its onboard lounge and first-class suites, will at first fly between Auckland and Dubai via Sydney from February on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays.

The A380 will offer a capacity of 14 first class passengers, 76 business class travellers, and 399 in economy class.

The new aircraft will provide "significant carbon emission reductions", its makers claim.