Emirates has completed the refresh of the first one of its Airbus A380s and is placing it into service today, January 6, as flight EK3 from Dubai to London Heathrow. The airline has a fleet of 120 A380s, though slightly more than half will receive the interior retrofit.

These planes are receiving 56 premium economy seats, as well a new color palette in business and first class. As the airline’s President Sir Tim Clark offers,

Customers will notice the difference the moment they step onboard – the spacious A380 will look and feel even more impressive and comfortable. With our latest interiors and products, this newly refurbished aircraft elevates our in-flight experience in all classes of travel, and enables us to offer more Premium Economy seats to meet customer demand.

I’m particularly proud that this refurbishment work was designed, conducted and completed in-house at our facilities in Dubai, to the highest standards of quality and safety. It reflects the world-class aviation capabilities and infrastructure that exists within Emirates, and here in the UAE.

Unfortunately it really is just a change of carpets, walls, and accents. These planes, for instance, are not getting Emirates’ new first class suite that’s on a limited number of Boeing 777 aircraft. Those planes remain more desirable than the A380, even though they lack shower suites.

Here are photos from the airline of their new first class seat, and their updated shower suite:

The airline is refreshing two planes at a time, and expects to complete work by 2025. Of course the soft product remains unchanged. They are the only airline serving Dom Perignon in first class, and they have numerous other wines and spirits that are superior to that famous LVMH brand. Look especially for Château d’Yquem to accompany your dessert.

Since the bones of business class (with its bar) and first class will remain the same, I do not anticipate ‘seeking out’ flying on one of the refurbished planes.