It may not carry millions of passengers or venture to exotic destinations.
But the latest addition to the collection of models at Brussels’ Mini-Europe, Belgium’s captivating world of miniature monuments, displays, and animations, has already taken off with visitors.
The replica of Emirates Airbus A380 aircraft, reproduced to the finest detail, has taken its place among the 350 icons at the 22,000 square metre park.
And, with an impressive 320cm wingspan, the near 3metre-long bigger-than-normal model is hard to miss as it sits on the tarmac alongside models of other air carriers, such as Air France and Brussels Airlines.
Emirates is the world’s largest operator of the A380 and, after recently being completed, its miniature version “touched down” at the site, located in the shadow of the famous Atomium, at a special unveiling ceremony on 27 May.
Custom-made at a scale of 1:25, the model, 45cm in height, took some 60 hours of careful and skilful craftsmanship to make, partly at the park’s on-site workshop.
The Emirates flagship A380, the largest passenger aircraft flying to and operating in Europe, was the inspiration for the model.
The “SuperJumbo” double-decker jet regularly operates out of major European hubs including Paris, London, Frankfurt, Vienna, and Copenhagen.
The new model at Mini-Europe will not be venturing quite so far as its “big brother” but, given its size, it still cuts a domineering figure at the miniature replica of a real airfield.
The plane is one of aviation’s most recognisable sights so it seems appropriate, said Mini-Europe MD Vinciane Meeùs, that it now finds a “home” among some of Europe’s best known landmarks, such as the Eifel Tower and Big Ben.
She joked, “With the various airlines represented here you could also say there is as much competition as in the skies.”
“We thought it would be good to have another plane here so what better one that this?”
Mini-Europe, one of Brussels’ best known visitor attractions, seeks to celebrate not only Europe’s cultural heritage but also its connections with the rest of the world, she said.
Aviation, and particularly long-haul travel, plays a key role in bringing people and cultures together—values that are fully aligned with the spirit of the park, she added.
“At Mini-Europe, the journey begins right now: we invite visitors to admire this iconic aircraft and start imagining themselves on board, heading for their next destination. With this emblematic miniature A380, we are proud to showcase Emirates, a symbol of global connectivity with Europe, as well as Airbus, a key partner in European innovation,” she went on.
Jean-Pierre Martin, Emirates Country Manager in Belgium, said the airline started negotiations with Mini-Europe up to a year ago and hopes the sight of the iconic aircraft “might inspire future pilots and enthusiasts.”
“It does seem appropriate,” he added, “that it is now sat alongside some of the most recognisable sights in Europe.”
He added, “The Emirates A380 has become more than an aircraft – it symbolises the magic and joy of travel and exploring the world. This new display at Mini-Europe helps bring that experience closer to visitors, offering a unique way to experience our flagship aircraft up close, while also celebrating our longstanding connection with Europe.”
Emirates has been serving Brussels for over 11 years and has carried over 3 million passengers to and through Dubai. Over the years, it has enhanced its passenger offering, adding a second daily frequency and bringing its latest aircraft to Belgian skies, including the fully retrofitted Boeing 777, equipped with Premium Economy. In 2018, the airline operated a special one-off A380 flight into Brussels Airport, to celebrate the inauguration of the airport’s first A380-capable gate.
The double-decker aircraft has become synonymous with its premium travel experience and global connectivity and is also a nod to the best of European industry as it is manufactured by Airbus in Toulouse, France.
From the proportions of the fuselage to the fine details of the livery, the model highlights the expertise and craftsmanship that define Mini-Europe’s creations.
Katerina Laurent is part of a 30-strong team of crafts men and women who work at Mini-Europe on either making, finishing or
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