Americans Can Finally Fly To Europe On The World's Best Airline

This week, Emirates began service on its first route between Europe and the United States, from Milan to New York.

It's worrisome news for the American carriers (United, Delta, and American) that already serve the route, who are concerned about the competition from an international airline with a stellar reputation.

Emirates was named the World's Best Airline for 2013 by Skytrax, a leading airline reviewer. No American carrier cracked the top ten.

And for those who act quickly, Emirates is offering flights from New York to Milan for under $600. (The sale ends October 8.)

For its first and business class passengers, Emirates has some amazing amenities, like shower spas and comfortable lounges. But the large majority of passengers who stick to flying in economy will get some nice treatment, too.

Emirates will fly a Boeing 777-300 ER on the New York to Milan route.

Boeing

There are 360 seats on board: 310 economy, 42 business, and 8 first class.

Emirates

Every passenger gets a 10.6-inch seatback monitor with as many as 1,200 channels to peruse.

Emirates

You also get telephone, email, and texting service.

Emirates

And an outlet!

Emirates

That's awesome news for those who want to use their computers, tablets, or phones throughout a long flight.

Emirates

The USB port should be helpful, too.

Emirates

So it's not shocking Emirates has won the Skytrax award for "World's Best Inflight Entertainment" nine years in a row.

Emirates

The food looks pretty good, too.

Emirates

A sample economy menu includes a smoked tuna appetizer, and chicken breast or lamb brochette for the main course.

Emirates

Then there's cheese and a sticky date pudding for dessert.

Emirates

You need a first class ticket to get dessert wine, but economy passengers have access to red, white, and champagne.

Emirates

Emirates hasn't hired nannies for its flights like Etihad, but it does offer priority boarding for those traveling with kids. The airline also promises complimentary birthday cakes.

Emirates

Now see how American carriers stack up against one another.

Southwest

RANKED: The Best Airlines In America >

Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/emirates-starts-us-to-europe-flights-2013-10?op=1#ixzz2glqCHgpj