With all due respect, I really don't understand the obsession with First Class.
It's almost as if by not having it, Emirates is somehow 'insulting' BHX.
FWIW, I have used First Class twice on Emirates B777, both on upgrades as Business was overbooked. I've got to say there was barely any worthwhile difference between the two classes. Certainly not enough for me to even consider paying the difference.
I got the same upgrade on the 380 once, and on that craft there is a worthwhile difference in product to consider paying the difference.
I would also say that since the 2-class 777 carries more pax it is therefore better for BHX as there are more people using the airport, its shops and restaurants etc.
For what is essentially a good news story - an extra flight - it amazes me that some people want to find some kind of negative angle to it.