Emirates (EK, Dubai International) is set to continue with its development of European 5th Freedom services with the launch of flights from Barcelona El Prat, Spain, to México City International.
The announcement was made in Dubai by the Spanish Secretary of State for Infrastructure, Transport and Housing, Julio Gómez-Pomar, after meeting with the Vice President of Emirates, Salem Obaidalla.
"The decision, which is part of the excellent relations between Spain and the United Arab Emirates, comes after confirmation that the project will positively impact Catalonia and that it reinforces Barcelona-El Prat airport's international connectivity," a government statement said.
The service to Mexico, which originates at Dubai International, will operate daily and is expected to tap into a market of 150,000 passengers per annum. No launch date has yet been confirmed but the route is expected to commence before year-end.
Emirates currently serves Barcelona 2x daily and, given strong demand, is looking to add a third daily frequency.
As it stands, the UAE-based carrier's European 5th Freedom network also includes New York JFK via Milan Malpensa, New York Newark via Athens, and Malta International via Larnaca.
