Difference between Economy and Premium Economy

Premium Economy is a class above the standard economy, which is offered by many airlines around the world. Premium Economy Class is sandwiched between Business and Economy Classes. Passengers skeptical of the Premium Economy Class first compare the prices offered by the airlines. The airfares have a significant variation from airline to airline and it also depends on the duration of the flight, but generally speaking, a premium economy seat is only ten to twenty per cent more costly than the standard economy. As compared to Business Class, however, a ticket in the Premium Economy is cheaper by seventy per cent.

By giving an extra ten to twenty per cent of the price of the economy ticket, the passenger can get a better flight experience. There is a mark difference between the legroom offered in both classes. In the economy class, the passengers’ knees are touching the back of the seats, but in premium, there is a reasonable enough distance for the passengers to stretch their legs.

The extra legroom enables the passengers to sleep better. According to The London Sleep Institute, an increase of just one more inch of legroom can provide up to 58% more REM sleep during flight. You can wake up at your destination revitalised and ready for another day. The Premium Economy section in the plane has a 2-3-2 seating plan, which is why it can provide more space per passenger.

The Premium Economy Class has other benefits too. The display screens are larger than those in Economy. Usually, there are two power outlets for every three passengers in the Economy Class; however, in Premium Economy you can have your own power outlet and a USB charger port. The seats also are wider in Premium Economy and provide greater lumbar support during the flight. During long-haul flights, the back can become strained if it is forced to remain in a static posture for hours at an end. Having an ergonomic seat that supports your backbone through the flight can enhance your flight experience.

Apart from that, the air hostesses and stewards are more vigilant to the passenger’s needs in the Premium Economy Class. The list of amenities provided in this class can vary from airline to airline, but some aircraft carriers offer free access to the executive lounge for Premium Economy travellers as well.