The Complete Guide to Flying Premium Economy

Think of premium economy as the perfect middle ground between the cramped quarters of economy and the grand expanse of business class.

For frequent fliers that may not want to spend on a first or business class seat but want a little more comfort than the cramped economy, the relatively new class of premium economy fits the bill. Premium economy offers enhanced comfort between standard economy and business class, typically featuring wider seats, extra legroom, improved dining, and priority services. Prices usually range from 30% to 60% more than economy, depending on the route flown.

However, the term ‘premium economy’ isn’t necessarily standardized across carriers or routes, so it’s important to do your research before booking a premium economy ticket. Learn more from our comprehensive guide here.

What is premium economy class?

Think of premium economy as the perfect middle ground between the cramped quarters of economy and the grand expanse of business class. Introduced in the early 1990s by EVA Air and Virgin Atlantic, premium economy has evolved into a distinct cabin class that has significantly upgraded mid-range travel comfort.

The premium economy sections often have fewer seats than in economy or business class, so they sell out sooner than some of the other classes of seats. If you’re planning to splurge more on premium economy, booking earlier tends to give you a wider availability of seat options.

What does premium economy include?

Premium economy isn't just about a bigger seat – though that's certainly a perk. Starting at check-in, you'll notice the difference with dedicated counters and priority boarding. Once onboard, expect enhanced dining services often served on real dishware, improved entertainment systems, and amenity kits on long-haul flights – think comfier blankets, softer pillows, and a goodie bag with treats like lotion and eyemasks. Many carriers provide additional baggage allowance and bonus frequent flyer miles.

The experience varies significantly between airlines, which is why choosing the right carrier matters. You’ll also want to check out the seat layout before booking; on some airlines the seats are still concentrated in the middle of the plane, so if you want a window or an aisle, you’ll want to book far in advance of your flight date.

Major airline premium economy classes: how do they compare?

Singapore Airlines premium economy

Often regarded as the gold standard, Singapore Airlines' premium economy shines with its 19.5-inch seat width (among the industry's best) and generous 38-inch pitch. Their Book the Cook service lets you pre-order gourmet main courses, while noise-canceling headphones and 13.3-inch HD screens enhance the entertainment experience. The champagne service doesn't hurt either.

Air France premium economy

Air France takes a distinctly European approach with their premium economy product. Their latest seats feature a hard shell design with 38 inches of pitch and 18.5 inches of width. The real standout? A 40-degree recline that doesn't intrude on the passenger behind you. Expect premium French wines and multi-course meals served in proper dishware

United Premium Plus

United's premium economy offering, branded as Premium Plus, brings a unique consistency across aircraft types. Whether you're on their 787 Dreamliner, 777-300ER, or retrofitted 767s, you’ll find comfortable seats that measure 19 inches wide with 38 inches of pitch, putting them among the more spacious options in the US market. You’ll also get a more substantial pillow and a cozy blanket for overseas flights, making longer flights just a bit more comfortable.

Delta Premium Select

Delta's international premium economy product proves American carriers are catching up. Offering 18.5-inch-wide seats with 38 inches of pitch, Delta Premium Select includes amenity kits, enhanced dining options, and premium bedding. The dedicated flight attendant service makes it feel more exclusive than expected from a US carrier.

American Airlines premium economy

American's premium economy provides 18.5-inch seats with 38 inches of pitch across their long-haul fleet. Leather seats, expanded entertainment options, and enhanced dining make it a solid choice for international travel. However, be aware that domestic ‘premium economy’ usually means Main Cabin Extra – just extra legroom without the international premium economy perks.

British Airways World Traveller Plus

Recently refreshed, British Airways' premium economy offers 18.5-inch seats with 38 inches of pitch. The UK flag carrier stands out with its upgraded dining service featuring elements from business class and a self-service snack bar on longer flights. Their comprehensive route network makes them particularly convenient for transatlantic travel.

*The above information is sourced from the official airlines' websites in 2024.

How does aircraft type impact premium economy class flight experiences?

Your premium economy experience can vary significantly depending on the aircraft. Newer planes like the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner typically offer the latest premium economy products with improved air quality and larger windows. The A380's quiet cabin enhances comfort, while some carriers' retrofitted 777s might feature older seats. Be sure to do your research on the type of aircraft before booking a premium economy seat so that you ensure you’re getting the most value for the extra money you’re spending.

How does premium economy differ from economy?

The jump from economy to premium economy represents more than just a few inches of space. Beyond the physical differences in seat size, expect:

• Dedicated cabin crews and enhanced service levels.
• An expanded dining menu with better food, and sometimes better wine selections
• Increased baggage allowance (usually two checked bags are included in the price of a premium economy ticket).
• Priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling. This is nice when you land, as your bag will come out sooner than other bags.
• Better quality entertainment systems and noise-canceling headphones.
• More substantial recline and leg rests.

Premium economy on international vs domestic flights

International premium economy offers a truly distinct product, while domestic US ‘premium economy’ often just means extra legroom seats in the main cabin. European carriers typically reserve true premium economy for long-haul routes, while some Asian airlines offer it on regional flights.

Things to consider when booking premium economy flights

When evaluating premium economy options, consider these key factors:

• Leverage the length: route length matters – the longer the flight, the more valuable an upgrade to premium economy becomes. A 14-hour transpacific journey justifies the premium more than a quick domestic flight.
• Research the aircraft type: aircraft type significantly impacts comfort. Research which plane operates your route, as newer aircraft typically feature better premium economy products.
• Book in advance: timing affects pricing – booking well in advance often yields better premium economy deals, while last-minute upgrades are sometimes available at check-in for reduced rates.
• Consider connection points: some airlines offer premium economy lounges or arrival services at their hubs but not at other airports.

Frequently asked questions

How much bigger are premium economy seats compared with economy seats?

Premium economy seats are typically 1–2 inches wider than economy seats and offer 5–7 inches more legroom. Seat width usually ranges from 18 to 19.5 inches (compared to 17–18 inches in economy), with pitch between 37–42 inches (versus 31–34 inches in economy).

The seat cushions also tend to be a little bit more comfortable, and you’ll get better amenities such as a comfier, bigger pillow and thicker blanket for overseas flights.

Do premium economy seats have WiFi?

WiFi availability depends on the aircraft rather than the cabin class. Most modern long-haul aircraft offer WiFi, though service quality and pricing vary by airline. Some carriers provide complimentary or discounted WiFi to premium economy passengers, but check with the airline to ensure coverage.

Do premium economy passengers get lounge access?

Generally, no. lounge access typically remains exclusive to business and first class passengers, and those with club membership. However, some airlines offer discounted lounge access to premium economy passengers, and you can always access lounges through other means like credit card memberships or airline status.

If you have status on certain airline carriers, you can take advantage of the lounge on international flights, regardless of what seat you book.

Do you get free drinks in premium economy?

Yes, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary in premium economy on most airlines. The selection typically includes better wines and spirits than economy, though not quite at business class levels.

Can you charge your phone in premium economy?

Yes, premium economy seats almost always feature power outlets and USB ports. Newer aircraft often provide both standard power outlets and high-power USB-C ports at every seat.

*Disclaimer: the views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of our company.