Which airline has best premium economy

When planning a long-haul journey, the thought of being cramped in an economy seat can be daunting. But what if there was a middle ground, offering significantly more comfort and perks without the hefty price tag of business class? Enter Premium Economy, a cabin class designed to bridge that very gap. But with so many airlines now offering this upgraded experience, the question arises: Which airline has the best premium economy for your next trip?

This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of premium economy, highlighting the top contenders and providing you with the insights needed to make an informed decision for a more comfortable and enjoyable flight.

What is Premium Economy and Why Consider It?

Premium Economy is a distinct cabin class positioned between standard Economy and Business Class, both in terms of physical location on the aircraft and pricing. It's an ideal choice for travelers seeking enhanced comfort and amenities without committing to the higher cost of a business class ticket.

So, what exactly can you expect from a Premium Economy seat?

• More Space: The most significant upgrade is usually the seat itself. Premium Economy seats are typically wider, offer more legroom (often 5 to 7 inches more seat pitch), and provide a greater recline (2 to 3 extra inches) compared to standard economy. Some even feature adjustable headrests, leg rests, and footrests.
• Enhanced Amenities: You'll often receive upgraded amenities, including softer blankets, larger pillows, better quality noise-canceling headphones, and a more comprehensive amenity kit, sometimes even comparable to those found in Business Class.
• Improved Dining: Meals in Premium Economy are usually a step up from economy, often served on proper plates with complimentary alcoholic beverages. Some airlines offer "chef-inspired" menus or pre-order options.
• Ground Privileges: Many Premium Economy tickets come with perks like priority check-in, expedited security, priority boarding, and increased baggage allowance, streamlining your airport experience.
• Dedicated Cabin: Often, Premium Economy is a smaller, separate cabin, offering a quieter and more attentive service environment.

Top Airlines with the Best Premium Economy Experience

While the quality of premium economy can vary by airline and even by aircraft type, several carriers consistently receive high praise for their offerings. Here are some of the top airlines known for delivering an excellent premium economy experience:

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic consistently ranks among the best for its Premium Economy product, even winning the Skytrax award for the World's Best Premium Economy Class Airline in 2025. They also took home the award for World's Best Premium Economy Class Onboard Catering. Passengers often laud their leather armchair-like seats, especially on newer aircraft like the A350. The experience often begins with a pre-takeoff glass of fizz, and meals are distinctive from economy, served with proper glassware and plates. With a seat pitch of at least 38 inches and a recline of 7-8 inches, there's ample room to stretch out.

Japan Airlines (JAL)

Japan Airlines is widely recognized for offering one of the most spacious and refined premium economy cabins in the industry. Their "Sky Premium" seats boast an impressive 42-inch pitch, providing industry-leading legroom, and a 19-inch width. A standout feature is their fixed-back shell design, which ensures that when the passenger in front reclines, it doesn't intrude on your personal space. JAL Premium Economy passengers also benefit from curated multi-course meals, priority check-in, increased baggage allowance, and even airport lounge access on select routes.

Emirates

Emirates, a newer entrant to the premium economy class, has quickly set a high bar, earning the World's Best Premium Economy Class Seat award in 2025. Their plush leather seats offer a generous 40-inch seat pitch and an 8-inch recline, providing a significant upgrade from the main cabin. Passengers are greeted with a welcome drink, followed by multi-course meals inspired by global cuisine. The airline's "ICE" entertainment system is considered one of the best globally, featuring thousands of movies and music albums on large HD screens. High-end amenity kits and attentive service further enhance the luxurious feel.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines' premium economy product is often described as feeling closer to business class than economy. Their cabins feature comfortable seats with a 38-inch pitch, 19.5-inch width, and an 8-inch recline. Each seat includes a calf rest and footrest, creating a cradle-like feel for long-haul comfort. Passengers can enjoy a large 13.3-inch HD touchscreen monitor with the award-winning KrisWorld entertainment system. A unique perk is the option to pre-select dishes through their "Book the Cook" program, even in premium economy.

EVA Air

EVA Air holds the distinction of being the first airline to introduce a premium economy class back in 1992. The Taiwanese carrier continues to offer a strong product, known for its spacious seats (38-inch pitch, 19.5-inch width), excellent in-flight meals, and upgraded onboard amenities. Their typical 2-4-2 seating configuration provides a comfortable and spacious flight experience.

Delta Air Lines

Among U.S. carriers, Delta Air Lines stands out with its "Delta Premium Select" cabin, being the first U.S. airline to introduce this class. Delta's premium economy offers larger seats with additional recline and adjustable footrests and leg rests on most long-haul international flights. Passengers receive elevated dining experiences and premium amenity kits. Delta is also recognized for its consistently friendly service and offers "SkyPriority" services, including dedicated check-in lanes, expedited security, and priority boarding.

Other Notable Mentions:

• Air New Zealand: Offers impressive 41-inch legroom and 9-inch recline on its leather seats.
• British Airways: Their "World Traveller Plus" cabin provides a welcome drink, upgraded dining, and priority boarding.
• KLM (Premium Comfort): Positioned between premium economy and business class, offering enhanced baggage allowance and upgraded meals.
• Air France: Features a hard-shell seat structure that prevents the person in front from reclining into your space.
• All Nippon Airways (ANA): Known for a 38-inch seat pitch, 19.3-inch width, and a large 15.6-inch personal monitor.
• American Airlines: Offers priority check-in, wider leather seats with extendable foot and headrests, and complimentary Wi-Fi on some aircraft.
• Iberia: Provides 19-inch width, 37-inch pitch, and 40% more recline than economy.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Premium Economy

With several airlines offering compelling Premium Economy products, how do you pick the best one for your specific needs? Consider these key factors:

Seat Dimensions

While all premium economy seats offer more space than economy, the exact pitch, width, and recline can vary significantly. A few inches can make a big difference on a long flight. Look for airlines with a seat pitch of 38 inches or more and generous recline. Some airlines like Japan Airlines offer "fixed-shell" seats where your recline doesn't impact the passenger behind you, a major plus for many.

In-flight Service & Dining

Do you value a more refined meal experience? Some airlines, like Virgin Atlantic and Singapore Airlines, offer distinctive meal services with proper plating and pre-order options. Others might provide complimentary alcoholic beverages that aren't available in economy. A dedicated cabin and attentive crew can also significantly enhance your journey.

Amenities & Entertainment

Consider the quality of the amenity kit, blankets, and pillows. Do you need noise-canceling headphones? Is a large, high-definition entertainment screen with a wide selection of content important to you? Check if Wi-Fi and power outlets are available at every seat.

Ground Privileges

If seamless airport navigation is a priority, look for airlines that offer priority check-in, expedited security, and priority boarding. Increased baggage allowance can also be a huge benefit, especially for longer trips.

Route & Aircraft Type

The premium economy experience can vary even within the same airline, depending on the specific aircraft flying your route. Newer aircraft often feature the latest cabin products. Always check the aircraft type for your specific flight if possible.

Price vs. Value

Premium Economy tickets are invariably more expensive than standard economy, sometimes as much as double or more, but still significantly cheaper than business class. Evaluate whether the added comfort and perks justify the price difference for your particular journey. For long-haul flights, especially over eight hours, the benefits often make the upgrade well worth it.

Making Your Decision: Tips for Finding Your Ideal Premium Economy

1. Identify Your Priorities: What matters most to you? Is it maximum legroom, gourmet meals, or priority airport services? Ranking your preferences will help narrow down choices.
2. Research Specific Routes: The quality of premium economy can vary by airline and even by the specific aircraft used on a route. Always check the details for your intended flight.
3. Compare Airlines: Use flight comparison websites, but then dig deeper into individual airline websites or trusted travel blogs for details on their premium economy offerings for your route.
4. Read Recent Reviews: Passenger experiences can be invaluable. Look for up-to-date reviews of the premium economy product on the specific airline and aircraft you're considering.
5. Consider Loyalty Programs: If you have elite status with an airline or its alliance, you might receive additional perks even in premium economy.

Conclusion

Choosing the best premium economy airline boils down to understanding your personal travel priorities and researching the specific offerings for