Premium economy improvements are tempting passengers away from business class. Jenny Southan finds out how the airlines compare
With typical long-haul business class costing £3,000 return, having the option of more affordable premium economy seats is certainly appealing. Bridging the gap between economy class and top-tier cabins, premium economy gives passengers added benefits such as queue jumping in the airport and, in some cases, free champagne and lounge access, as well as more space.
These days, most major airlines offer a standalone premium economy product – not just economy seats with extra legroom. This year, American Airlines and Delta are finally installing premium economy cabins, and it’s rumoured that some of the Middle Eastern airlines will follow suit. But how much better is the experience than regular coach class? We compare 16 airlines so you can decide…
AIR CANADA
Premium economy passengers are fast-tracked through the airport and given a hot towel and welcome soft drink, followed by wine, beer, spirits and “premium” hot meals served on china with proper cutlery and glassware. As with most airlines here, you can check in two cases (23kg each).
The B787-8 cabin has three rows in a 2-3-2 layout (economy is 3-3-3). In my 2015 review (see businesstraveller.com/tried-andtested), I said: “Premium economy feels spacious with a good amount of legroom (seven more inches than economy), and looks stylish. Seat-back screens (measuring 11 inches – two inches more than in economy) and universal power sockets are available to everybody. Amenity kits contained socks, an eye mask, toothbrush, toothpaste and ear plugs. Footrests made it more comfortable.”
WIDTH 18-20in/46-51cm
LEGROOM 38in/96.5cm
RECLINE 7in/18cm
AIR FRANCE
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة September - October 2017 من Business Traveller Middle East.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك ? تسجيل الدخول
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة September - October 2017 من Business Traveller Middle East.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك? تسجيل الدخول
Onwards and upwards
In an exclusive interview with Ian Fairservice for Business Traveller, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and CEO and Founder of the Emirates Group, provides insight into the current and future state of travel and Emirates’ pivotal role in getting the industry back on track
Cleaning up the crisis
How hotels have risen to the challenge of keeping guests safe during the pandemic
The Great Vegas Meetings Magic Act
The city is working hard to conjure up events and make millions of visitors reappear
TAKES OFF
Corporations are seeking new travel solutions that put safety and convenience first
TEE TIME IN TOKYO
The Tokyo Olympics may be delayed, but the golf courses around Japan’s capital aren’t slowing down
KEYS TO THE KINGDOM
New and upcoming hotels to check out when you next visit Saudi Arabia
QATAR CALLING
A swathe of hotels are opening in the Gulf State in the run-up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup
MEMPHIS CON BRIO
Music and history flood through the heart and soul of this quintessential American river town
Sofitel Mumbai BKC
BACKGROUND Sofitel Mumbai BKC is one of Accor’s most prominent addresses in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The French hospitality group’s other hotels in the city are operated under the Novotel and ibis brands.
Taking Scotland in Stride
A walk through the Highlands and Borders is the best way to touch this country’s history and nature
