Economy Vs Premium Economy Seat: What Are The Differences Between Them

To provide passengers with more options when flying, airlines are now offering Premium Economy seats with improved comfort and amenities. But does it really have many differences compared to the Classic Economy?

Economy vs premium economy seat: What are different features that you need to know? The following article will dive deep into this matter to provide necessary insights for travellers, so they can make the right decisions when flying.

What is Premium Economy?

Explore the Premium Economy Class and its perks - photo byJohn McArthur on Unsplash

If Economy and Business Class has a child, then it’s definitely Premium Economy. Fits nicely between the two classes, a seat in Premium Economy offers better space and amenities compared to that of Economy.

At the same time, passengers won’t have to pay up to multiple times their Economy ticket for a Business upgrade. It’s a great option for those who wish to explore the benefits of a premium ticket without having to break the bank.

In premium economy, you'll enjoy a more spacious seat with extra legroom, because let's face it, nobody wants their knees to be best friends with the seat in front of them. You'll also be treated to a fancy welcome drink (cheers!) and some upgraded meal options that will make your taste buds do a happy dance.

But wait, there's more! Premium economy often comes with additional perks like priority boarding, extra baggage allowance, and access to exclusive lounges. It's like being part of a secret club where you can sip your pre-flight cocktail in peace, away from the hustle and bustle of the airport.

Economy Vs Premium Economy: The Main Differences

So, if you’re interested in getting one of these, it’s best to understand the differences between Economy and Premium Economy. Here, we’ll discuss the main differences between the two classes regarding all important factors. As wise travellers, you can then decide if they are worth spending extra money on.

What perks do you get in premium economy?

1. Double the price, but you get what you pay for
2. More leg room and wider seats
3. Seat recliner
4. Better amenities
5. Prioritized services
6. Improved in-flight entertainments
7. Slightly elevated or much better food options.

Prices

Can you see the differences? Delta News Hub, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

First thing first, you need to know what you’ll be paying to get that extra seat room and flying services with a Premium Economy boarding pass.

Generally speaking, the price for your Premium Economy seat often doubles that of an Economy. This is quite reasonable, considering all the benefits and perks that you’ll receive.

Not to mention that a major step up to Business or First Class can sometimes cost you five times the Economy ticket. So, unless you are willing to spend a lot more, a simple Premium Economy upgrade would be a better option.

For example, a round trip from Miami to New York with Delta Airlines will cost about $200 for an Economy ticket. But if you want the Business Class experience, you’ll have to pay triple, while, on the other hand, a Premium Economy ticket will only cost a hundred more.

Seats

The most notable difference is definitely the more spacious seat with better legroom. We are all familiar with the cramped Economy seat, where your elbows bump into each other and the leg room is often limited. This isn’t good for your leg joints or your comfort when flying.

Also, a more comfortable seat where you can lean back further will offer a more restful experience, especially during long and exhausting flights. Make sure your back won’t suffer after you get off the plane.

And in some cases, the Premium Economy seats can come with luxurious leather padding, lumbar support, extra cushion, leg rest, and a few more perks. All are designed to elevate your experiences and improve comfort while travelling.

Keep in mind that the seats will be different for each airline and on their specific plane models. So, it’s always best to check with the airlines or go to Seatguru to check what your seating would look like.

For instance, British Airways’s World Traveller/Economy seats on the Airbus A380-800 (388) has a pitch and width of 31 and 17.5 inches, respectively. On the World Traveller Plus/Premium Economy on the same plane, you get 38 and 18.5 inches, an upgrade for sure. Not to mention you can recline your seats, too.

Check-ins, security, and boarding

Enjoy faster check-in and boarding. Photo by tarapatta - stock.adobe.com

While the policies can be somewhat different, Premium Economy passengers can usually expect speedy check-in and priority boarding included with their tickets.