Choosing plane seats can be tricky with all the different options airlines offer. They often use varied and sometimes confusing names for their cabins, even for seasoned travelers. If you’re aiming to manage your flight costs, economy seating is probably your go-to choice. But the decision doesn’t stop there. So, what sets economy apart from premium economy fares?
In our guide to premium economy versus economy, we’ve detailed the various types of seating available in both categories to help you make an informed choice for your upcoming flights.
Premium Economy vs. Economy
At its core, the primary difference between premium economy and economy is the amount of space and cost. Premium economy offers extra room, making it the preferred choice if your budget allows for a bit more comfort.
Still unsure about the distinctions between premium economy and economy?
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown to clarify everything you need to know about these seating options.
Read Also: What is Air France Premium Economy
1. What Is Economy Class?
Economy class, also known as standard class, is the most basic and cost-effective cabin option available on airlines. It’s designed for passengers who prioritize affordability over luxury.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in economy class:
- Cost Effectiveness: The primary advantage of economy class is its affordability. It’s ideal for travelers looking to keep expenses low.
- Seating Configuration: On wide-body aircraft, seats are typically arranged in a 3-4-3 or 3-3-3 layout. The seats offer basic comfort with standard height and width.
- In-Flight Entertainment: Entertainment options are more limited compared to higher classes. Travelers may need to bring their own entertainment, such as books or tablets.
- Meal Services: Basic meals are usually included with your ticket. For international flights, special dietary requests can often be accommodated if arranged in advance.
2. What Is Premium Economy Class?
Premium economy aims to bridge the gap between economy and business class, offering a more comfortable flight experience at a mid-range price. It’s important to remember that while it provides some additional perks, it’s still closer to economy class than business class.
You shouldn’t expect fully reclining seats or gourmet meals with Champagne—premium economy is essentially an enhanced version of economy class with some added extras.
Here’s what you need to know about premium economy:
- Comfort and Space: Premium economy offers more spacious and comfortable seating compared to economy class, with extra legroom. Seats are typically arranged in a 2-4-2 configuration on wide-body aircraft.
- In-Flight Entertainment: Enjoy upgraded entertainment options, including larger screens and noise-canceling headphones. Some airlines provide a broader selection of movies and TV shows. For example, Air India offers additional luxury amenities for premium economy passengers.
- Dining Experience: Expect improved meal services with better menu choices and complimentary beverages. Priority meal selection and special dietary requests are often available.
For a clearer comparison of costs, check out Google Flights for details on the price difference between economy and premium economy options.
| Key Differences | Premium Economy | Economy Class |
| Seating | Spacious seats with extra legroom. | Standard seats with limited legroom. |
| Perks | Priority boarding, more luggage allowance. | Standard boarding, limited luggage allowance. |
| Meals | Upgraded menu options with plated meals. | Basic meal options, sometimes for purchase. |
| Amenities | Amenity kits are on longer flights. | Limited or no amenity kits. |
| Entertainment | Larger screens, improved headphones. | Standard entertainment options. |
| Cabin Atmosphere | Quieter, smaller cabin. | Larger, more crowded cabin. |
| Cost | Higher cost than Economy. | More budget-friendly. |
| Reclining | Some reclining, not fully lie-flat. | Limited recline. |
3. What’s the Difference Between Economy and Premium Economy on International Flights?
Economy vs. Premium Economy on International Flights
What is Premium Economy on international flights? Is it worth the extra cost?
Premium Economy is often found on international flights, where its enhanced features are most valuable due to the longer duration of travel. This class is typically available on newer, larger aircraft such as Airbus A330s, A340s, A350s, and A380s, as well as Boeing 777s and 787 Dreamliners.
Airlines Offering Premium Economy Class
Many airlines offer premium economy options to enhance the travel experience. Here are some notable ones:
- American Airlines
- Air Canada
- Singapore Airlines
- Air India, which has recently introduced premium economy on its international flights.
Other airlines provide similar benefits under different names:
- Delta Airlines calls its premium economy class Premium Select, available on select international routes.
- United Airlines offers Premium Plus.
- Virgin Atlantic simply names it Premium.
Which airline provides the best premium economy experience for international flights?
According to reports, Delta Airlines is often highlighted as one of the top choices for premium economy travel.
