So, if premium economy is the love child of business class and economy, where does that put economy plus? Her work has been featured by Orbitz and The Points Guy. But according to Skyscanner, it's still 65% less expensive than business class. There is not a dedicated British Airways Premium Economy check-in, but there does tend to be out of the UK airports so this is an advantage over Economy. On the 747, which flies between Miami (MIA) and London (LHR), you'll find 18.5-inch wide seats with 38 inches of pitch in a 2-4-2 layout, similar to American's configuration. British Airways Premium Economy is a very average product, but it is still worth paying the extra if you can afford it. Economy has the highest number of rows and seats. Theres a choice of two economy fares when you fly in World Traveller: Basic, and Standard. Fly to the UK and Europe in Euro Traveller or go long-haul in our World Traveller cabin. Soon, we took off and thus began my 6 hour 50-minute flight in the oldest Premium Economy seats I have ever taken. Travellers can stow one piece of checked luggage to 35kg. Complimentary drinks and spirits are also offered in-flight. On British Airways, you'll also earn 100% on a discount WTP cash fare, versus as little as only 25% on a discounted World Traveller economy fare. Premium economy tickets are available on World Traveller Plus routes. The new premium economy seating is by Haeco, and Finnair is the launch customer of its Vector Premium seat, customised by Finnair and again, designed in partnership with Tangerine. The 28 seats are configured in a 2-4-2 cabin layout. The British Airways premium economy amenity kit includes socks, an eye mask, lip balm, a pen, a toothbrush and toothpaste. Qantas has a new premium economy seat on its B787s. British Airways Premium Economy Vs Economy Image 10 of 15, Worth The Upgrade? My seat, 33K, was the window seat on the right side of the plane. But, even with the grotty cabin, the food, drinks service, and crucially the seat recline and space was better in Premium Economy vs. Economy. If you. When evaluating offers, please review the financial institutions Terms and Conditions. It is an upgrade on the Zim Magic seat,with which Lufthansa launched its premium economy offering back in 2014. And while our site doesnt feature every company or financial product available on the market, were proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward and free. Fly short-haul with Club Europe or to the rest of the world with Club World. Flying on a British Airways Boeing 777-200 from London to New York. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. A typical premium economy fare includes around 5-7 inches of extra legroom, wider seats, and more space to recline. Here is our round-up of the options, updated, so you can decide which is best for you. British Airways Premium Economy is a very average product, but it is still worth paying the extra if you can afford it. Check-in and boarding: Premium check-in and boarding line.. Food: The best of the three, with glassware and proper plates: a small salad to start, a decent-sized main course that sits squarely between the Economy and Business Class level of presentation . There is not a dedicated British Airways Premium Economy check-in, but there does tend to be out of the UK airports so this is an advantage over Economy. Make a partial payment and use Avios: Log in to your British Airways Executive Club account and search for flights. If youre considering flying with British Airways, why not fly in comfort? Premium economy is the latest cabin to be added by many long haul airlines. The British Airways premium economy meal service is actually quite good after it was upgraded some time ago. Megan Lee joined the travel rewards team at NerdWallet with over 12 years of SEO, writing and content development experience, primarily in international education and nonprofit work. Pre-qualified offers are not binding. That being said, if you have any sort of airline status (for example, you earn the lowest status tier on Delta, Silver Medallion, with 45,000 qualified miles and $6,000 of qualified flight spending), you might unlock upgrades that could get you into an economy plus or premium economy seat at no charge. I would still book Premium Economy on one of these unrefurbished planes rather than fly Economy. In addition to a substantial recline, British Airways premium economy seats offer both a fold-out legrest and a fold-down footrest. . While British Airways' premium economy is not quite the same experience as flying in business or first class, it does offer some additional perks that arent available when choosing to fly on an economy ticket. Pre-qualified offers are not binding. Due to COVID-19, British Airways has made temporary changes to their normal terms to offer more flexibility. Complimentary Upgrades For Your Vacation, Plus Travel Auctions, News, Tips & Reviews Of Luxury Hotels, Copyright 2014 - 2023 Luxury Travel Diary Limited. Three toilets have been dedicated to the new cabin. British Airways Premium Economy Vs Economy Image 11 of 15, Worth The Upgrade? Natasha is a freelance writer and frequent traveler. Most of British Airways' long-haul aircraft have a premium economy cabin, also known as World Traveller Plus. A flight to New York from London Heathrow in Premium Economy with Virgin Atlantic in September 2021 will earn you 6,914 Virgin Flying Club Points. There is also an upgraded amenity kit, noise-cancelling headsets, a blanket made from recycled materials and memory-foam pillow to help them arrive rested and refreshed. The Zim Privacy seat (officially known as the Zim PC-02) will be fitted to the carriers 19 B747-8s, as well as new A350 and B787-9s as they are delivered. American Airlines offers premium economy, as does Air Canada, and Singapore Airlines, among others. For this flight, I was seated in seat 33K, which is the first row of Premium Economy. Wider, comfier leather seats and a separate cabin are all plus points. Flight attendants pass through the cabin offering pre-departure beverages of orange juice or water, served in real glassware. British Airways provides two options typically one vegetarian and one meat-based meal. A big bonus of traveling on BA in Premium Economy is that you get a decent three-course meal with a bread roll served on proper china crockery with a real napkin. See the Chart Key. The new seat offers up to 17cm more legroom than standard economy and up to 20cm recline, as well as movable leg and footrests, in-seat power and a 13-inch IFE screen. (Paying double the price of an economy ticket for premium economy, especially when flying abroad, is fairly standard.). Offerings include aisle access from every seat, a door for added privacy, a 79-inch fully flat bed, personal outlets for charging your electronics, high-resolution screens and extra storage space. British Airways Premium Economy Vs Economy Image 7 of 15, Worth The Upgrade? It has taken many years, but finally premium economy is offered by the majority of long haul international airlines. So, is premium economy or economy plus worth the price bump? You want a travel credit card that prioritizes whats important to you. It says the remaining long-haul fleet consisting of Airbus A330-300s and A340-300s will be equipped with Premium Economy Class at a later date. Arguably, one of the better premium economy products available is British Airways premium economy. British Airways gets a point for being 5 cheaper if you book your bag online. Log in to your British Airways Executive Club account. Again, to use the Delta Silver Medallion example, that status makes you eligible for complimentary upgrades to Comfort+ and first class on international flights, space permitting. <p>Flying British Airways premium economy (World Traveler Plus) has been a long time goal of mine, and I've been scouring the interwebs for years trying to find a cost-effective opportunity to make it happen - which isn't easy on BA. Fly premium economy with World Traveller Plus and treat yourself to a wider seat, longer legroom and priority boarding - all in a separate cabin with an extra checked bag. You want a travel credit card that prioritizes whats important to you. Of all the premium economy experiences I've had, it's the least distinguishable from regular economy: a slightly better seat, a nicer pillow, a glass for your wine rather than plastic, and a tiny amenity kit. The IFE screen is 28 cm/ 11 inches (B787-8 and 26.4 cm/ 10.4 inches (B777-300); theres a USB port for charging, in-seat power at every seat, adjustable headrest, a comfortable pillow and blanket, as well as a CleanCare+ kit, containing a mask, hand sanitizer, and antiseptic wipes, in addition to an amenity kit when flying internationally. Indulge in the most exceptional comforts from luxurious fine dining to your own private suite. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. British Airways Premium Economy Vs Economy Image 2 of 15, Worth The Upgrade? TRAVEL + LEISURE is a registered trademark of Travel + Leisure Co., registered in the United States and other countries. Premium Economy seats are equipped with a full-length leg-rest, leather-padded footrests, a retractable armrest that can be adjusted and a headrest. On both airlines, you can expect greater checked luggage allowance in premium economy -- two checked bags with a maximum weight of 50 lbs . Theres also an exclusive flight service from New York-JFK to London, called. The decisions that come with flying can be fairly overwhelming: Do you want to book an economy ticket and bank on an upgrade, thanks to your frequent-flier status? Premium Economy: Entertainment. You'll get a bigger seat with extra legroom and recline. If you are booked into an unrefurbished plane, or your plane is substituted for an unrefurbished plane, you will most likely be extremely disappointed that you have paid to upgrade to Premium Economy from Economy. The seat pitch is 38 inches. Premium Economy Fly premium economy with World Traveller Plus and treat yourself to a wider seat, longer legroom and priority boarding - all in a separate cabin with an extra checked bag. NerdWallet strives to keep its information accurate and up to date. Premium economy passengers are fast-tracked through the airport and given a hot towel and welcome soft drink, followed by wine, beer, spirits and premium hot meals served on china with proper cutlery and glassware. Premium Economy passengers can take advantage of priority check-in and amenities like pillows, blankets and toiletries on the plane. Whilst 3 inches doesn't sound like a lot, on a long, transatlantic flight tall people will definitely benefit from that additional space. Whether or not you get meal service depends entirely on the airline and your exact flight. If you want lounge access at London Gatwick or lounge access at London Heathrow, you can buy or use a Priority Pass to access alternative lounges. As a digital nomad for nearly five years, JT proves through experience that credit card rewards can drastically reduce the cost of travel. The food on Air Canada is pretty great too, and a reason to upgrade in itself. The seats are tatty, and however rich you are, this expenditure buys you a disappointing product. Personal iPad with entertainment offerings. . Other airlines offer their own take on premium economy, offering similar levels of amenities, but with a different name. Outside of. Visit Insider's homepage for more stories. Do not sell or share my personal information. We offer free upgrades, free breakfasts, and free perks at hotels, including Four Seasons, Aman, Belmond, Hyatt, Ritz-Carlton, Marriott, InterContinental, and more. I didnt think much of this flight before boarding. Passengers also get a 13.3 inch screen, larger table with AC and USB ports, and an upgraded culinary experience including a snack of ice cream. Get Surfshark VPN at http://surfshark.deals/winginit - Enter promo code WINGINIT for 83% off and THREE MONTHS for free!Welcome to Heathrow - and watch me as . Reuters. Flying economy can certainly get you to your destination, but not without its inconveniences. Premium Economy customers will get two meal services as well as a selection of drinks throughout the flight. In Economy Class on EVA Air's 777-300ER and A330-200/300s, the shape-memory cushion material and ergonomic design make the seats superbly comfortable and the bottom cushion moves forward as the seat reclines to give a more natural reclining position. On the B777-300ER and B777-200ER aircraft it is in a 2-4-2 configuration, with a 2-3-2 configuration on the B787-10 and a 2-2-2 on the B767-300ER. Ultimately, 125 ($163) felt like a small price to pay for a second checked bag, a wider, more comfortable seat, loads of leg room, and better food, and I plan to fly premium next time I travel with BA. Saga Class vs Premium Economy? I had some water as my pre-departure welcome drink. There were two standard lavatories located to the rear of the cabin for both premium economy and economy class passengers. British Airways World Traveller Plus (BA Premium Economy) is worth looking at on most long haul routes from the UK; it is a significant step up on their standard World Traveller (Economy) Class. When evaluating offers, please review the financial institutions Terms and Conditions. AustriansB777-200 aircraft hold a total of 24 premium economy seats configured 2-4-2, while B767-300ERs contain 30 seats (expanded from 18) configured 2-2-2. As previously reported, Lufthansa had originally planned to launch the new seat on its delayed B777-9 aircraft. Expect a larger inflight video screen and, hopefully, noise-canceling headphones. Four travel experts compared what passengers can expect on a British Airways flight in all four classes - Economy, Premium Economy, Business and First. on select Club World flights. For starters, understanding the terminology around different seating levels can help you make an informed decision about which ticket to book. With checked baggage, and freedom to choose your own seat, its ideal for a longer trip. How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2023? Features include up to 40 inches of seat pitch, 19.5 inches of seat width, eight inches of recline, and a 13.3-inch IFE screen. The Best Time to Book a Flight for Domestic, International, and Holiday Travel. For a premium economy ticket, you'll shell out at least $300 more than a regular coach ticket, if not more. You can book British Airways premium class seats by paying full price at the time of booking. There are also USB sockets and pods for storing waterbottles. Long story short, I finally stumbled across a great deal on their brand new A350 (BA017), and I jumped on it as fast as I could. Flight attendants pass through the cabin shortly after takeoff to provide a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. If you find discrepancies with your credit score or information from your credit report, please contact TransUnion directly. While an economy ticket doesn't get you an upgrade from coach, understanding what the class offers should still factor into your seating decision. Economy vs. As I had to arrive in London for a meeting the next morning, this flight matched my schedule the best. Relaxing Environment. They also have access to the Concorde Room, British Airways' most luxurious lounge, when flying through London-Heathrow Terminal 5 and New York-JFK Terminal 7. British Airways' new premium economy seats. Flex was about $763 higher. Premium Economy to find out whether it is worth paying for the upgrade. Premium Select travellers qualify for Sky Priority security, boarding and bag delivery. Our opinions are our own. Some routes and tickets come with an even greater allowance, and extra bags can be added for a fee. The fixed shell seat features an integrated privacy shield, as well as adjustable armrests, a cocktail table, single piece meal table, personal reading light and extra-large IFE screen. Premium Economy Seat Dimensions Were giving our aircraft cabins a stylish new interior and fitting our newest, most enhanced seating, which feature a six-way headrest with adjustable ears for added comfort and movable middle arm rests, which is particularly useful for customers travelling with children. British Airways World Traveller Plus passengers board no later than Group 3 boarding. If you find discrepancies with your credit score or information from your credit report, please contact TransUnion directly. Use this form to log in to your account or to create an account for the British Airways executive club. British Airways: 3 - Virgin Atlantic: 2. There is quite a big difference between economy and premium economy, primarily in terms of space. The textiles are Finnish design house Marimekko with a neck pillow and blanket designed specifically for the new premium economy seat. NerdWallet Compare, Inc. NMLS ID# 1617539, NMLS Consumer Access|Licenses and Disclosures, California: California Finance Lender loans arranged pursuant to Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Finance Lenders License #60DBO-74812, Property and Casualty insurance services offered through NerdWallet Insurance Services, Inc. (CA resident license no. The amenity pouch contained the very basics a toothbrush and dental kit, a pair of socks, and earbuds. The Zim Privacy seat (officially known as the Zim PC-02) is afixed shell seat with an integrated privacy shield, as well as adjustable armrests, a cocktail table, single piece meal table, personal reading light and extra-large IFE screen. The extra recline also enables me to sleep for a short period, a crucial reason to choose to fly Premium Economy if you are flying overnight. Singapore Airlines A350 Premium Economy. A seat in premium economy directly between the main and business class. We have also reviewed many of these seats head to the Tried and Tested section of the website. All financial products, shopping products and services are presented without warranty. Now we review the cost, seat, food, check-in, and airport lounge that you will experience if you book BA Premium Economy. When you visit this site, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Airline) to re-sort the table. British Airways vs Virgin Atlantic Economy - The Insider's Notes. Better than in Economy although hardly a dealbreaker. In addition to bigger and better seats, British Airways provides notably better food and drink service in premium economy as compared with economy. Premium Economy class also allows travellers to check in two bags of 23 kg per person and provides a choice of three in-flight main courses. When travelling with the whole family, youll find lots of thoughtful touches to make life easier, and help keep everyone happy and entertained. Basic economy fares allow travelers to fly for less if they're willing to sacrifice some amenities. This elevated service starts before the wheels even leave the ground. Finnair launches new business and premium economy seating. Plus, passengers get better food and drink options along with extra perks like priority boarding and extra baggage allowance. If you have enough Avios saved up, you can easily redeem your points to book a premium class seat. Club Suites are available on select services in New York-JFK, Dubai, Tel Aviv, Bangalore and Toronto flights. Do not sell or share my personal information. Instead, flight attendants note the meal options as they pass through the cabin. However, that was not the most shocking thing. Lie-flat seats in your own "suite" could be part of your flying experience in first or business class. All financial products, shopping products and services are presented without warranty. British Airways allows two 23kg bags in premium economy, while its basic economy fare is hand luggage only. Photo: Craig Abraham. Assigning Editor | Travel, SEO, Travel Loyalty Programs. is available on flights headed to the U.K. and Europe, while, service is offered on all other business flights. Economy vs. This was at least updated to the latest touch screen High Definition TV. All of this is a substantial upgrade from what British Airways offered prior to a recent cabin refresh. Premium Economy: Lounges Adjustable headrests, legrests, or lumbar support. As well as carry on baggage,World Travellers can store checked bags in the hold. British Airways offers standard service in the UK and worldwide, while American Airlines offers standard service in the US and worldwide and a far greater number of flights. Configured 2-4-2, SIAs new premium economy seat has slots at the base of the central armrest for water bottles, cup holders above, calf and footrests that fold out, two USB sockets per person, and 13.3-inch HD monitors. Even in the worst Premium Economy in BAs fleet with the tatty cabin, the recline, space, food, and drink are superior in Premium Economy. An amenity kit including ear plugs, socks and other necessities is also provided. Beyond that, you'll be at the front of the main cabin and typically benefit from priority boarding and potentially a better beverage or meal service (depending on the airline). By using ba.com you agree to the use of cookies. Basic is our lowest fare offered on selected routes. Those flying in premium economy often won't have to pay fees on their checked baggage, and they accrue airline miles at a different rate than on a coach ticket. More often than not, you will be paying the promotional rate. Power: Qantas offers 110v AC power, but bring an adaptor if you have a UK plug. Israeli carrier El Al took delivery of the first of 16 B787 Dreamliner aircraft in 2017, featuring a new premium economy seat configured 2-3-2 and offering 38 inches of seat pitch, a footrest and multi-position adjustable headrest. You can find out more and change our default settings with Cookies Settings. Upholstered in navy padded fabric, the newer seat has a footrest, a headrest with wings and a 10.5-inch touchscreen that can be controlled by a personal handset. Travel + Leisure is published by Meredith Corporation under license from Travel + Leisure Co. Premium economy will be like business class in the 90s - better seats with more pitch, width and recline; at least for most airlines (some sell standard economy with extra legroom as "premium". This is a better meal than is served in Economy. Premium Economy, Complimentary breakfast for two per bedroom, $100 USD equivalent Hotel experiential credit per room per stay, Early check-in / late check-out (subject to availability). A fruity welcome drink is offered on board. And while our site doesnt feature every company or financial product available on the market, were proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward and free. All financial products, shopping products and services are presented without warranty. British Airways premium economy service, which the airline calls World Traveller Plus, is available on most long-haul routes. Ultimately, 125 ($163) felt like a small price to pay for a second checked bag, a wider, more comfortable seat, extra leg room, and better food. SAS is quite shy about its premium economy seat, which ii calls SAS Plus. and search for flights. ), a great blanket, and a small amenity pouch. In this review, we discuss whether its worth upgrading to Premium Economy. 3. Does British Airways premium economy earn more miles? A seat that converts to a fully flat bed. How to book British Airways premium class tickets. Economy vs. We also offer mid-flight snacks and a second meal on longer flights. Conclusion. You will get standard seating with about 30 to 31 inches of legroom, though it varies by airline and aircraft. Maya Kachroo-Levine is the luxury and experiences editor at, Jillian Dara is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, spirits, wine, food, and culture. BAs World Traveller Plus cabin comes in two forms, with a more modern product found on the B787, A380 and some B777s and an older one on the rest of the long-haul fleet. Comparatively, some British Airways economy fares are "hand baggage only" and charge up to $175 each way for two checked bags. Premium Plus is on B777-200 aircraft which serve long haul destinations, B777-300s and B787-8, B787-9 and B787-10 aircraft, as well as the B767-400ER fleet and the B767-300ER fleet, this last of which has two configurations, one of which has 24 seats of Premium Plus. I'd even rank it as high as QANTAS 787-9 premium economy. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced. Bid & win a luxury hotel stay or travel item for your next vacation. Benefits on the A330s (the only aircraft which has premium economy) include a separate cabin section with between 17 seats which recline to 120 degrees (9 inches) and offer up to 40 per cent more legroom (compared to economy); baggage allowance of up to two items weighing 23 kg, dedicated check-in desks and priority boarding; a night kit with blanket and pillow, and a 10.6 inch TV screen on the carriers A330s. If your flight number begins with anything other than BA (e.g. How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2023? British Airways charges 40 online or 45 at the airport, giving a 5 discount if you book online before check in.