13 Jan 2025
Is Premium Economy Worth It?
Premium Economy is becoming increasingly popular, with more airlines expanding their existing Premium Economy cabins. But is it ultimately worth it?

The expansion of the Premium Economy cabin across all airlines highlights the demand from travellers for more comfort while flying. While every airline is different, each has ensured that when you fly in Premium Economy, you have an elevated experience.

So, is Premium Economy worth it? For many travellers, the added comfort, space, and upgraded service make it a worthwhile investment, especially on long-haul flights.

At the Airport

Check-in

The premium service starts at the airport. Passengers travelling Premium Economy often have access to priority check-in desks, a larger baggage allowance, and priority boarding, making the start of their journey as smooth as possible.

Lounge access

Award-winning Japan Airlines is the first airline to offer lounge access to its Premium Economy passengers. The Sakura Lounge in Tokyo is now available to passengers travelling in Premium Economy on a Japan Airlines ticket, providing a space for guests to rest, relax, and enjoy the lounge's many features before their flight.

Sakura Lounge Tokyo Available for Premium Economy Passengers

The Premium Economy Cabin

One of the best features of Premium Economy is the smaller and private cabin, which is smaller than both business and economy classes. With an average of around 30 seats per flight- Qantas flights have 28-36 depending on the aircraft, Air New Zealand have 21-40, and British Airways have 30-50- the cabins are spacious and quiet. Most airlines have a 2-3-2 or 2-4-2 configuration with ample storage space around the seat. Unfortunately, the seats generally sell out quickly due to the smaller cabin size, so you have to get in early.

The Seat

Premium Economy seats are in the midst of a revolution, with Japan Airlines, Emirates and Cathay Pacific upgrading their seat designs. Now, they no longer just have a bigger recline, more leg room and a footrest, but newer seats feature more storage space, bigger entertainment screens, and a plush pillow. Japan Airlines is leading the pack in Premium Economy seat design by introducing a hard outer shell that allows passengers to recline without disturbing the person behind them. All of the features make it even easier to relax and feel comfortable during your flight.

New Cathay Pacific Premium Economy Seat

More Space

New seat designs have also created more storage space when flying Premium Economy. Personal items can be stored in both armrests (depending on the airline) and the seat back. Your book, small device, or other items are all easily accessible.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Along with a huge variety of entertainment options available, the entertainment screens are increasing in size, closer to what you would find in Business Class. Passengers travelling in Premium Economy get to enjoy their entertainment in peace thanks to most airlines offering noise-reducing headphones for use during the flight. Bluetooth connectivity is becoming available on more airlines, allowing passengers to connect and use their own wireless headphones during the flight. If you prefer to use your own device you don’t need to worry about the battery running flat with both USB and AC charging points below or next to your seat as standard in most Premium Economy cabins, so you never miss a thing.

Emirates Premium Economy

Amenities

To make your flight more comfortable, most airlines provide Premium Economy passengers with a complimentary amenity kit filled with essential items they'll need during the flight. The kits can contain an eye mask, socks, and a pen; depending on the airline, skin care products may also be included.

Dining

While the dining experience varies between the airlines, it is definitely an elevated experience compared to Economy. There is usually more choice in both the meals and beverages options available. When flying with Qantas, you are treated to a welcome drink and snack shortly after take-off, followed by your choice of meals from the menu. Similarly, Air New Zealand has a delicious selection of meals and a high-quality wine list to choose from.

Air New Zealand Premium Economy Dining

Who is Premium Economy For?

Premium Economy is ideal for those who find they do not have enough legroom in Economy or would like to take advantage of the bigger tray table and space to work while travelling. For some, the cost of Premium Economy may outweigh the benefits. Still, for others who value extra comfort, room to stretch out, and priority boarding, Premium Economy is the easy choice.

Final Thoughts

While Premium Economy may not have all the bells and whistles of Business Class, it is an upgrade from Economy Class. For those passengers asking the question, "Is Premium Economy Worth It?", the answer depends on your priorities. It offers extra legroom, a better selection of meals, priority check-in, and wider, more comfortable seats, making it easy to see the appeal.

Get in touch with an Airfare Specialist who can book your next Premium Economy seat.