Emirates passenger scores free upgrades

Emirates has taken brand loyalty rewards to a whole new level.

Loyal customer Andy McGinlay has gone to extreme lengths to show just how much he loves the airline, and as a result, has been rewarded with a series of free flight upgrades.

But how does a 33 year old Scottish teacher manage such a feat?

Well, according to a story on news.com.au, the obsessed Emirates flyer decided to show his love with a tattoo of their logo on his arm.

McGinlay, who teaches English in Thailand and has travelled to 80 countries, jumped straight to the front of the upgrade queue after getting inked, and, as news.com.au reports, has been treated to over a massive $24,000 worth of upgrades.

Everything from champagne and cognac in both business and first class has come McGinlay’s way, with the airline even surprising the loyal passenger with a surprise birthday party on board.

“I was flying Business Class from Dubai to Bangkok and the cabin crew saw it was my birthday from the date of birth on my passport,” McGinlay told the UK’s Express.

“They invited me to their first-and-business-class bar and showered me with gifts, champagne and a chocolate cake. I felt like a rock star.”

“Every time I’ve flown since I got the tattoo, the cabin crew are amazed — they always want to take photos with me in the galley showing off the tattoo.”

Check out these pics of the Scot with his tattoo on board Emirates flights, sourced from Barcroft Media/Splash News Source: Splash News Australia.

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Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

Latest comments

Steve@iFLYflat says:
February 5, 2015 at 8:44 pm
I know many easier ways to fly on confirmed first and business without having to resort to tagging your body. But this is a good story which would be a hit with the FAs. If he did dress better, I’m sure he would be even more well received.
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Owen Olsen says:
February 3, 2015 at 2:28 pm
A badly dressed teacher flying Business Class? Unless this guy is a true frequent flyer with status I doubt anyone high up in the airline would’ve given him upgrades, least of all anyone of muslim faith. Anyhow, don’t you all go out and do the same as there’s no guarantee you’ll get anything but a few thumbs up from check-in and the FAs. Besides you may end up being stuck with something you may regret later or if you decide to tattoo all your fav airlines down your arm!! So stick with gaining status and dress well! Cheers.
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David Fairfull says:
February 2, 2015 at 1:14 pm
This seems a bit extreme, but for first class flights, I might even do it
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Andy McGinlay brand loyalty business emirates first class passenger tattoo upgrades