By the Caribbean Journal staff

Dubai-based carrier Emirates is launching its first-ever flights to Mexico, the airline said this week.

Emirates will be launching a new daily service from Dubai to Mexico City via Barcelona, beginning Dec. 9.

The Mexico City flight will run on Emirates’ Boeing 777-200LR with 38 seats in business and 264 in economy.

The new route will be a linked service with Barcelona, meaning travelers can fly between Mexico City and Barcelona “in unprecedented style and comfort,” the carrier said.

“We are excited to be able to introduce new air connectivity between Dubai and Mexico. The availability of high-quality, daily international air services is essential for the development of tourism, business and cultural ties,” said Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline.

Because of Mexico City’s high altitude, Clark said Emirates could not operate a nonstop flight from Dubai.

“Barcelona was a natural choice for a stopover,” Clark said.

“We are pleased to offer a direct connection on the route between the Spanish city and Mexico City that has long been neglected by other airlines and remains underserved despite the strong customer demand,” Clark said.

It’s a major step for Emirates in the wider region.

“Mexico supports the launch of the long-awaited flight Dubai-Barcelona-Mexico City, which responds to Mexico’s Government tourism policy towards opening new markets and strengthening connectivity between the Middle East and Mexico. We are eager to receive tourists from this part of the world,” said Mexico’s Minister of Tourism, Miguel Torruco Marqués.

— CJ