Emirates gives wake-up call for on-time departures

From 1st June, passengers who arrive later will not be able to board the aircraft, ensuring that passengers already seated will not be inconvenienced by delays and possible missed connections.

Mohammed H Mattar, Emirates' Senior Vice President Airport Services (Dubai), said: "Emirates is implementing the fifteen-minute gate closure in consideration of our customers who arrive on time for their flights.

"It takes about fifteen minutes to locate and off-load the baggage of missing or late passengers, so the new rule will give us the necessary minutes to ensure the aircraft takes off as scheduled."

Emirates' customers are requested to check in three hours before departure when travelling in Economy Class; one hour beforehand when travelling in First and Business Class.

All passengers are expected to be at the boarding gate 35 minutes before departure.

Transit passengers from flights arriving late into Dubai will be escorted by airport staff through formalities to ensure they make their onward connections.

Passengers will be given verbal reminders about the new fifteen-minute gate closure policy when they check in. Written reminders have also been placed on boarding cards, quick transfer wallets and onboard airshow slides.

Announcements over the airport PA system will remind passengers periodically about the new fifteen minute rule.

"We are sympathetic about passengers who may fall asleep in the airport while waiting for their connections, or who miscalculate the time they can allow themselves at the Dubai Duty Free or in one of the outlets," said Mr Mattar.

"However, by implementing the fifteen minute gate closure policy, we are giving a wake-up call to late-comers, and repaying the courtesy shown by our punctual customers," he added.