Is Austrian Airlines Premium Economy Worth It? A Comprehensive Seat Review

Long-haul flights can be daunting, transforming what should be an exciting journey into an endurance test. Are you tired of feeling cramped and uncomfortable, but not quite ready to splurge on Business Class? If so, Austrian Airlines' Premium Economy might just be the sweet spot you've been searching for. But does it truly deliver on its promise of enhanced comfort and value?

This comprehensive Austrian Airlines premium seat review delves deep into what you can expect when flying Premium Economy with the Austrian flag carrier. We'll explore everything from seat comfort and in-flight amenities to dining and pre-flight perks, helping you decide if this intermediate class is the right choice for your next intercontinental adventure.

Understanding Austrian Airlines Premium Economy

Austrian Airlines' Premium Economy Class is designed to offer a significant upgrade from standard Economy without the full cost of Business Class. It's available on their long-haul flights, typically operated by Boeing 777, 767, or 787 aircraft. This cabin class aims to bridge the gap, providing a more relaxed and comfortable travel experience, especially on longer journeys.

Key Features and Benefits

What sets Premium Economy apart?

• Enhanced Seating: The most notable upgrade is the seat itself, which is wider and offers more legroom and a greater recline than Economy.
• Improved Dining: Expect an elevated meal service, often a three or four-course menu served on porcelain dishes.
• Increased Baggage Allowance: Premium Economy tickets typically include two pieces of checked baggage, each up to 23kg. This is a significant advantage over Economy fares.
• Better Entertainment: Larger screens, USB ports, and power outlets are standard. Noise-canceling headphones are often provided.
• Amenity Kit: A thoughtful kit with essentials like a sleep mask, earplugs, and a bamboo toothbrush is usually included.

Comparison with Other Classes

It's crucial to set your expectations correctly. Premium Economy is not a cheaper version of Business Class; rather, it's a significantly better Economy Class.

• Premium Economy vs. Economy: You gain substantial improvements in seat comfort (wider seat, more recline, increased legroom, footrest), upgraded meals, and a higher baggage allowance. The cabin also often feels more spacious due to the seat design and configuration.
• Premium Economy vs. Business Class: Business Class offers fully flat beds, lounge access, priority boarding, and a much more extensive and personalized service. While Premium Economy offers some "premium" elements, it doesn't compare to the luxury and privacy of Business Class.

The Seat Itself: Comfort and Ergonomics

The centerpiece of any Austrian Airlines premium seat review is, naturally, the seat. Is it truly comfortable enough to justify the extra cost on a long-haul flight?

Austrian Airlines' Premium Economy seats are designed for comfort, especially on extended journeys. They often feature a 2-4-2 or 2-2-2 configuration, which can be ideal for couples or families.

Seat Pitch, Recline, and Width

• Seat Pitch: Expect a generous seat pitch, often around 38 inches, providing ample legroom. This is a notable increase of about 5-7 inches compared to standard Economy.
• Recline: The recline is significantly greater than in Economy, allowing for a more relaxed position, though not flat enough for a full night's sleep.
• Width: Seats are noticeably wider than their Economy counterparts, providing more personal space and reducing "elbow battles" with your neighbor.

Legroom and Storage

The increased legroom is a major benefit, allowing you to stretch out more comfortably. Many seats also come with a footrest, which can further enhance comfort, though some users note it can be tricky with bulky items under the seat in front. Convenient storage spaces and bottle holders are often found between seats or on the seat in front.

Power Outlets and Entertainment System

Each Premium Economy seat typically comes equipped with a standard USB port and a power socket, ensuring your devices stay charged throughout the flight. The entertainment system features a larger touchscreen (around 12 inches) that is responsive and offers a wide selection of movies and TV shows, often with noise-canceling headphones.

In-Flight Experience: Beyond the Seat

Beyond the physical seat, the overall in-flight experience contributes significantly to a positive Austrian Airlines premium seat review.

Dining and Beverages

Austrian Airlines partners with DO & CO for its catering, which is often highlighted as a clear strength. Premium Economy passengers receive an upgraded dining experience, usually a three or four-course meal served on porcelain plates with proper cups. Options often include a choice of main dishes, along with warm bread, salads, and dessert. Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are also offered.

Amenity Kit and Bedding

Passengers receive an amenity kit, which typically includes an eye mask, earplugs, socks, and a toothbrush kit. A nice, thick blanket and a comfortable pillow are also provided, enhancing the ability to rest during the flight.

Service Quality

While service quality can vary, many reviews indicate that the crew in Premium Economy is attentive and proactive, often comparable to Business Class in terms of responsiveness to passenger needs. However, some experiences suggest service might not always feel distinctly "premium" compared to the full Business Class experience.

Pre-Flight & Post-Flight Perks

The Premium Economy experience extends beyond the cabin.

Priority Boarding/Check-in

While Premium Economy often includes prioritized check-in, it generally does not come with priority boarding or dedicated security/immigration lines. These benefits are typically reserved for Business or First Class passengers.

Lounge Access

It's important to note that lounge access is generally not included with Austrian Airlines Premium Economy tickets. Passengers can often pay a fee to access lounges, or use third-party lounge programs like Priority Pass if they have them.

Baggage Allowance

As mentioned, a significant perk of Austrian Airlines Premium Economy is the increased baggage allowance. Passengers are typically permitted two pieces of checked luggage, each weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs), for intercontinental journeys. This is double the allowance for most Economy fares and provides considerable flexibility, especially for longer trips or those involving shopping. For carry-on, Premium Economy passengers are allowed one piece up to 8kg.

Is Austrian Airlines Premium Economy Worth It?

This is the ultimate question for any Austrian Airlines premium seat review. The answer largely depends on your priorities and the price difference.

Cost vs. Benefits Analysis

The value for money can be exceptional if the upgrade cost is modest. Some travelers have found upgrades for as little as USD 50 per person on long-haul routes, which is considered an absolute steal for the added comfort. However, prices can fluctuate wildly, sometimes reaching up to USD 1,000 depending on the flight and operator.

Consider the cost per hour of flight for the upgrade. If a small additional fee grants you hours of significantly more comfortable travel, it's often a worthwhile investment.

Who is it Best For?

• Budget-Conscious Business Travelers: If your company budget doesn't stretch to Business Class, Premium Economy offers a comfortable compromise for long-haul work trips.
• Couples and Families: The 2-4-2 or 2-2-2 seating configuration can be ideal for groups traveling together, offering a more intimate space.
• Tall Travelers: The increased legroom is a game-changer for taller individuals who often struggle in standard Economy.
• Anyone Seeking More Comfort on Long Flights: If you value personal space, a better seat, and an enhanced dining experience without the full Business Class price tag, Premium Economy is a strong contender.

Tips for Booking and Upgrades

• Be Flexible: Price variations can be extreme based on dates and times. Flexibility can help you find better deals.
• Monitor Prices: Keep an eye on prices after booking your Economy ticket, as upgrade offers might become available closer to departure.
• Consider Fare Tiers: Austrian Airlines offers different Premium Economy fare variants (Basic, Basic Plus, Flex) with varying refund and rebooking options.

Conclusion

Based on this Austrian Airlines premium seat review, it's clear that Premium Economy offers a compelling proposition for long-haul travel. The significantly more comfortable seat, improved dining, and generous baggage allowance provide a tangible upgrade from standard Economy. While it doesn't offer the full luxury of Business Class (especially regarding lounge access and fully flat beds), it excels as a "better Economy" experience.

If the price difference is reasonable for your budget, upgrading to Austrian Airlines Premium Economy can transform your journey from an endurance test into a genuinely pleasant part of your travel experience. It's an investment in your comfort and well-being, allowing you to arrive at your destination feeling more refreshed and ready to go.

Have you flown Austrian Airlines Premium Economy? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is Austrian Airlines Premium Economy as good as Business Class?

No, Premium Economy is not a cheaper version of Business Class. It's best described as a significantly enhanced Economy Class rather than a slightly downgraded Business Class. While it offers more comfort and better amenities than Economy, it lacks the fully flat beds, lounge access, and extensive personalized service of Business Class.

Q2: What is the baggage allowance for Austrian Airlines Premium Economy?

Austrian Airlines Premium Economy typically includes two pieces of checked baggage, each weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs), for intercontinental flights. For carry-on, passengers are usually allowed one piece weighing up to 8kg.

Q3: Do Austrian Airlines Premium Economy passengers get lounge access?

Generally, no. Lounge access is not a standard inclusion for Austrian Airlines Premium Economy tickets. Passengers may be able to purchase lounge access or use third-party lounge programs if they have them.

Q4: Are power outlets available in Austrian Airlines Premium Economy seats?

Yes, Austrian Airlines Premium Economy seats are equipped with both standard power outlets and USB ports, allowing you to charge your electronic devices throughout your flight.