Premium Economy is a class of service that is becoming increasingly popular among airlines. It is often referred to as a "business class lite" option, offering more space, better meals, and upgraded amenities than traditional economy class. When choosing a premium economy fare, it is important to keep a few things in mind.
Usually, international carriers and long-haul routes have the best premium economy cabins, with the latest planes like the Airbus A350-1000 and classic wide-bodies like the A380 | Airbus, Boeing 777 and 787 Boeing Dreamliners typically offering the most perks.
Emirates Airlines
Image source Business Insider
Emirates, one of the most respected airlines, has recently introduced a new premium economy cabin that is designed to emulate its luxurious business-class seats. Emirates' premium economy passengers enjoy a separate check-in desk, a larger carry-on bag allowance, and free seat selection. Inside the cabin, the airline has used the same design elements as its iconic business-class cabin, such as cream leather with stitching details and wood accents. Passengers also get a large throw pillow, six-way adjustable headrest, calf-and-foot rests, and a large in-flight entertainment screen.
Emirates premium economy cabin can be found on the airline's latest double-decker Airbus A380 plane and is currently open for booking on routes from Dubai to Paris Charles De Gaulle and London Heathrow.
Qantas Airlines
Image source Qantas
Qantas, the Australian carrier, also has a premium economy cabin that is completely separate from regular economy. Passengers enjoy wider seats with more legroom than coach, wider armrests with storage compartments, two USB outlets, and a footrest. Instead of simply reclining backwards, the seat moves forward and up, so your legs and back are slightly elevated in a more comfortable position. Premium passengers are greeted with a complimentary sparkling wine, cocktail, or juice upon boarding, and meals are served on custom-designed tableware. Other in-flight amenities include noise-cancelling headphones, a large pillow, a 100 per cent wool blanket, and a Napoleon Perdis–branded amenity kit. Passengers in the cabin also have access to a dedicated check-in counter and priority boarding.
Nippon Airways
Image source Wikipedia
All Nippon Airways (ANA) is another airline that offers premium economy seats with many of the same benefits as flying in the airline's plush business class. ANA's premium economy passengers are guaranteed access to the airline's lounges at its major airports, and they also receive priority baggage handling.
ANA's newest premium economy seats, found on board its Airbus A380s, Boeing 787-10s, and Boeing 777-300ER planes, have a roomy 38 inches of pitch, a leg rest that supports the calf, a massive 15.6-inch personal monitor, and an adjustable reading light attached to the headrest. During the flight, those seated in the premium economy can order from the business-class drink menu, which includes curated selections of Champagne, sake, red and white wine, Umeshu plum wine, and shochu. ANA also serves its beloved dishes that fuse Asian and Western cuisine, including its homemade bread served in business class.
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