Comfort Zone

Premium economy improvements are tempting passengers away from business class. Jenny Southan finds out how the airlines compare

- Jenny Southan

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