The rise of premium economy seats in U.S.

Skift Take

Unlike international flights, where the separate category existed for a while, in U.S. it looks like an attempt to squeeze out more revenues from existing assets, in keeping with increase in ancillary fees all around.

There is an emerging middle class on U.S. airlines. Going by many names—Economy Comfort on Delta, Main Cabin Extra on American and Economy Plus on United/Continental—these premium-economy seats are situated in the forward part of the economy cabin, offer a few more inches of seat pitch than standard economy and provide some additional perks like early boarding.

The emerging premium-economy options on U.S. carriers differ from..."real premium economy" on such international carriers as British Airways, Air France, Japan Airlines and All Nippon, "where it's really a significantly different seat, different service and a different booking class for it."

Up Next

Experiences

How Travel Brands Can Seize the ‘Q5’ Opportunity on TikTok

Driven by increased spending on experiences and the digital habits of younger audiences, TikTok has emerged as a key platform for inspiring and shaping travel decisions. Leveraging the platform’s reach early in the year presents a unique opportunity for travel brands to connect with eager travelers.

TikTok for Business + Skift | 1 month ago

Yanolja Teams With ChatGPT and Google. More AI Partnerships to Come, CEO Says

Industry leaders envision a future where consumers can plan, book, and manage all aspects of travel from a single interface. These early partnerships between AI and travel companies bring that vision a step closer.

Justin Dawes | 4 hours ago