Premium Economy classes

Hi there! Those Emirates photos look great. Quick question—are the meals in premium economy different from regular economy, or does it depend on the airline?

No, the meals are different (at least on the two airlines I’ve tried). It’s not as good as in business class (where you get three separate meals in three services, whereas here it’s a tray with the starter, main course, and dessert all at once), but it’s still more refined than in economy. Wine and champagne, better quality than in economy, and real cutlery plus actual glass glasses!

Hi, It really depends on the airlines—some offer more checked baggage weight and extra seat space, with meals similar to economy class or slightly upgraded, but you earn way more miles, from 100% to 150% depending on the flight. One European airline stands out in premium economy: SAS (SkyTeam), which includes lounge access and fast track. The same goes for Japan’s ANA and JAL on their own flights. The price difference isn’t always worth it, though—it can be nearly double or even more compared to economy, depending on the airline. Sometimes, on certain routes, business class is even cheaper than premium economy in flight comparison tools, which is a weird and unjustifiable quirk unless it’s due to load factors.

I also tried Premium Economy on a low-cost French Bee flight, and I must say I was pleasantly surprised by the service, especially for long-haul flights to Tahiti. It’s not business class, but honestly, there’s nothing to complain about—especially for the quality-to-price ratio. Definitely worth doing again!

Hi there,

The only time I flew Premium Economy was with Lufthansa.

Since the seat only cost two hundred euros more than cattle-class economy, yeah, the value for money was excellent! (Only 2 seats instead of 3, way more legroom and width, footrest, upgraded meal, more attentive flight attendants, and a location near the exit).

That said, I wouldn’t pay double the economy price for Premium Economy!

Still, it’s not business-class comfort... If the prices get too close, it’s not worth it anymore!

I agree when the price difference is just a few hundred euros, it’s really worth it compared to economy, but I wouldn’t pay double the economy price for Premium Economy.

On Emirates, honestly, the upgrade was 200 € (on a 400 € ticket), and I thought it was totally worth it! We were able to sleep (overnight flight) and arrived rested without suffering through a whole day after a sleepless night at our destination. And the service was great!

We also got more baggage allowance (35 kg).

I’m happy to read your feedback—I think Premium Economy still isn’t totally standardized across all airlines, and some are more worth it than others. For me, British Airways wasn’t worth it that much!

Hello, Looks like it’s worth doing again! [;)]

Hi, While business class services tend to converge on long-haul flights (those famous 3Fs) across different airlines, Premium Economy classes vary significantly from one carrier to another. You can go from an upgraded economy to a mini-business class. Services and extra costs differ a lot—it’s worth doing some thorough research. And sometimes, another airline’s business class is the better option if you’re flexible with dates or even the route! !

Exactly,

and not all planes are equipped with premium economy classes yet.

But I think these different service options are becoming really interesting.

I preferred flying in PE with Emirates over Business with British Airways, even though I had a flat bed with BA—I preferred the food and service on Emirates.

Hello everyone,

You’re probably aware that Premium Economy classes are becoming more and more common among regular airlines. I wanted to get your opinion? Do you think the value for money is good? Personally, I’ve tried the ones on British Airways and Emirates, and I absolutely loved them! I do wish we had access to Fast Track and/or the lounge, but otherwise, I really think it’s an excellent alternative. Some photos of Emirates’ PE

The 3 times I was able to try Premium Economy were during operational upgrades on AF (2 flights to JNB and 1 to DXB).

While the experiences were obviously great since they were free, they don’t make me want to spend extra for this kind of hybrid product. For me, it’s either economy or business class (when possible)!

And why? Did you find the price difference wasn't worth it?

What's Premium Economy like on Air France?

Back then, the hard-shell seat "slid" forward and the backrest tilted slightly backward (great for the neighbors behind ;)). A minimalist comfort kit was provided. For the meal, there was champagne served in a real glass as an aperitif, and the starter was foie gras. Those were the key markers. The seat has recently been changed, and the soft product has likely evolved as well.

Actually, for me, the extra cost doesn’t justify the additional comfort. Especially since now you can pay for upgrades (often good deals) at the last minute. Handy if you want to treat yourself just for a specific portion of the trip (like an overnight flight, for example).

Thanks for flagging that—I totally missed that info!