In a growing trend, Delta is joining American and dozens of international airlines in offering a ‘premium economy’ section on international flights offering improved amenities and services as well as a big more space.
The growth of the “better than coach,” but “cheaper than business” sections is leaving more and more flights with business as the premium class instead of first.
And that may be a good thing in one way: A study published this week suggests that ‘air rage’ incidents are more likely to occur on planes with first-class sections—especially if we peasants are forced to walk through it on the way to the back of the plane. Incidents are also more likely to occur in the first-class cabin itself according to the paper co-authored by professors from Harvard Business School and University of Toronto.
Typical add-ins for premium economy include priority boarding and check-in, upgraded food options and drinks as well as snazzier seats with more room and more recline. Domestic premium economy tends to offer little more than extra foot room and is usually not treated as a separate cabin.
Delta defined the market well; its president, Glen Hauenstein, says it would appeal to customers “whose companies will not provide them access to the business class cabins. Or (affluent fliers) who want a choice.” Delta will add the new class first to its A350s arriving next year, and gradually upgrade its other widebodies.
For more on the trend from USA Today, click HERE
Photo: Singapore Airlines premium economy seats
