‘Premium economy’, ‘economy plus’, ‘premium plus’, ‘Cabin Extra’, ‘Even More Space’. This flight seat class goes by many different names and branding styles depending on the airline. But what really is premium economy?
Premium economy is obviously a more luxurious choice than your standard economy class seat but what are the true differences and is it really worth the extra cost? In this article we’ll set out the standard service level you’ll get for your premium economy ticket so you can make an informed decision on the answer to ‘premium economy vs economy’.
If economy or premium economy just doesn’t cut it and you want to upgrade to business class, we might have the solution for you
So what is premium economy?
To put it simply, premium economy class (in all its name forms) is a step above economy, but not as expensive or luxurious as business or first class. The seats are still in the economy cabin, but you’ll have access to some additional luxuries than those traveling in standard economy. Initially introduced in the 1990s, premium economy class is gaining popularity among travellers who prefer comfort above all, especially in long-haul flights.
What is the difference between economy and premium economy? Let’s take a look at the key benefits of upgrading to premium economy flights.
- Extra leg-room: As a general rule, the premium economy rate will give you 5-7 inches of extra leg-room, which can go a long way to making your journey a more pleasant one, particularly if you are long-limbed!
- Wider seats: In addition to the extra leg space, you’ll typically find that the seats are wider in premium economy class, giving you some much-needed elbow room.
- More space to recline: With more room to tilt back your chair, you’ll also get to recline your seat without infringing too much on the personal space of the passenger behind you. Fancy a nap on our flight? We look at how you can get some sleep on your flight.
- Improved food: Some airlines offer a separate food menu with increased food options so you can partake in superior cuisine to those passengers in the rows behind.
- Improved entertainment: Larger entertainment screens in premium economy mean you can fully immerse yourself in your in-flight movie experience.
- Power outlets: Guaranteed access to a power outlet means you can ensure device batteries are fully charged when you land at your destination.
- Greater privacy: With more space comes more privacy. You won’t have to worry about your neighbor taking glances at your screen as you work on a confidential document during the flight.
- Priority boarding: With many airlines, there’ll be no waiting around in the long, slow-moving queues at the boarding gates. Instead, you’ll be priority boarded to get settled and relaxed, ready for your flight.
Different airlines, different packages
We’ve set out some general benefits you can expect when booking a premium economy ticket, however, it’s important to note that airlines offer different packages. American Airlines, for example, offers onboard wifi, whereas Delta will give you a flight attendant solely for premium economy class passengers. Do your research before you take the plunge to make sure a premium economy ticket is going to give you all that you want!
So what’s the cost?
These extras for a premium economy flight will come at a price that is usually 65% less expensive than business class tickets.
Compared to economy class, the price increase will depend on the route you’re traveling and the airline you’re flying with. As standard, expect at least an additional 30% on top of the standard economy fare, though it could be as much as double the cost of an economy ticket.
Supply and demand cause the price of all airline tickets to fluctuate, so there’s no sure-fire way to predict what the prices and much will depend on dates and the route popularity. You’ll have to check your journey to see the exact cost.
Is it worth it?
You’ll certainly be more comfortable flying in premium economy or economy plus over an economy seat, but whether the upgrade is worth your dollars will depend on how much you value in-flight comfort over bagging an affordable price on your plane ticket.
If you’re taller than average, you may think that paying for the extra-legroom is well worth it to avoid spending hours with your knees cramped up around your chin. If you find flying a somewhat claustrophobic experience, again it may be worth the extra dollars so you can enjoy rather than endure your flight with the bigger space allocation. If you’re traveling for business purposes but your travel allowance won’t cover business class, premium economy is an excellent option to ensure you reach your destination rested and ready to participate in meetings.
Premium economy on domestic flights can be of good value as the distances are shorter, but this may just equate to a seat at the front of the aircraft with no passenger in the middle seat next to you.
Economy vs premium economy
We’ve set out the key perks to traveling in premium economy. From extra space to bigger screens, to a smoother boarding process, there’s definitely a lot of reasons to choose premium economy over your standard seat. The decision on whether flying premium economy is worth it will ultimately come down to the route itself and your own personal flying preferences.
