Flying Premium Economy

However, for many of us, the option of flying business class is simply out of our reach, as this is one privilege that can cost many thousands to enjoy. For a long time, growing up, I thought that there should be some form of compromise class, between business and coach. In recent years, airlines have begun to think that way as well and have introduced what is known by many as a premium economy class.

It's a relatively new concept and many airlines still have yet to introduce it, but amongst those who have are British Airways, three of Virgin's brands - Virgin Atlantic, America and Blue; Air France, Qantas, Japan Airlines, and Air New Zealand.

Of course, it costs more money than traveling by coach, but it's much cheaper than a business class seat. How much more are we talking? Well, if an economy class flight costs in the region of $900 between the US and the UK, then you might expect to find a premium economy seat in the region of $1600. These costs can, of course, vary dramatically and we've seen some premium economy seats for only a couple of hundred dollars more than coach class. As with all airfares, it's worth watching for the dates you want to see if there's any variation in the prices. If you can be flexible on the dates, then you may have even more luck.

The prices you're looking at with flying premium economy are still much better than the $2700 you could pay for the delights of business class, but let's be honest, it's still a lot of extra money, especially if you've got a big party traveling with you. So what do you get for your money?

The first, and for many, the most important, thing that you get is extra legroom. That's a particularly important consideration when you're going to be cooped up in a seat for many hours, as every extra inch will make a huge difference to you! I must admit that the first time we booked a premium economy seat, I was a bit skeptical about a few extra inches, but I was stunned at how much luxurious it made the flight feel. I've found that I can even get out of my seat across my husband without having to make him get up, and I can even bring my knees up in front of me, which is a very pleasant change from coach class.

Most airlines offer between five and seven inches of extra legroom, but it's definitely worth checking with the airline you plan on flying with, as legroom can vary dramatically. For example, with both British Airways and Virgin Atlantic you get 38", but Virgin America and Blue only offer 35" and 34" respectively and, with Air France, it's only 34"–36". Of the major airlines offering a premium economy class, Qantas is the most generous with legroom, offering up to 42".

You'll also find that the width of your seat is, on average about an inch or two wider, with an extra couple of inches in the recline of the seat. Other extras related to your seat usually include a combination of adjustable headrest, leg rest and lumbar support for your back, all of which does make for a more comfortable journey.