For travelers who want more comfort than standard economy without the business-class price tag, premium economy has long been a sweet spot. Now airlines are betting that more passengers will pay for that middle ground, and a wave of new products is making the cabin more private, spacious, and even luxurious.
From adjustable privacy screens to lie-flat sleep pods, here’s what’s changing in premium economy across the industry.
Emirates introduces full-height privacy screens
Dubai-based Emirates unveiled what it calls the “world’s first electric premium economy seat with full-height privacy screen.” The seat will debut on its Airbus A350 aircraft, configured 2-3-2 across 28 seats. Passengers can raise or lower the divider using seat controls, and adjust their seating position with the same unit. Wireless charging is also being added to the cabin.
The move reflects a broader trend: airlines are increasingly treating premium economy as a distinct product, not just an extra-legroom seat.
American Airlines expands premium economy on long-haul
American Airlines launched its first retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER into commercial service in September, featuring 44 premium economy seats on long-haul routes. The redesigned seats include sculpted headrests, adjustable calf and foot rests, wireless charging, and both USB-C and AC power. The carrier also added 30 extra-legroom seats under its Main Cabin Extra offering, with free high-speed Wi-Fi for AAdvantage members and access to hundreds of inflight entertainment titles.
American has also announced several new European routes for next summer, so the upgraded cabins will be available on more transatlantic flights.
Lufthansa’s culinary and comfort upgrades
Lufthansa, marking its 100th anniversary, revamped its premium economy cabin as part of its “Future Onboard Experiences” (FOX) initiative. The new dining options include a business-class-level appetizer, three hot main courses, warm bread, and pastries or cake to finish. Passengers also receive “cozy” slippers for extra comfort.
The German carrier’s focus on food and comfort is part of a wider effort to differentiate premium economy from standard economy, especially on long-haul routes.
TAP Air Portugal launches “Economy Prime”
Portugal’s TAP Air Portugal introduced its premium economy product, branded “Economy Prime,” on select long-haul flights. The cabin has 12 seats in a 4-abreast layout, with the middle seat always left empty for extra space. Passengers get a choice of two hot dishes, a pre-arrival snack, an amenities kit, and access to 13-inch HD screens.
On the ground, Economy Prime travelers enjoy premium check-in, fast track, priority boarding, and priority baggage, plus an allowance of one 10kg cabin bag and two 23kg checked bags. The fare is split into two options: Prime and Top Prime, with the latter offering free changes and refunds.
Wizz Air’s low-cost take on premium
Hungarian low-cost carrier Wizz Air launched “Wizz Class” earlier this year. The add-on gives passengers a seat in the first row, with a choice of window or aisle, while the middle seat remains empty. Other perks include extra legroom, priority boarding, two cabin bags, and a snack and soft drink.
The service is available on selected flights to and from Budapest, Bucharest Otopeni, London Luton, London Gatwick, Rome Fiumicino, and Warsaw.
Air New Zealand’s world-first sleep pods
Air New Zealand is set to introduce its Skynest sleep pods on ultra long-haul flights between New York and Auckland starting in late December. Up to six premium and standard economy passengers at a time can book a four-hour session in a private pod with a privacy curtain, ambient lighting, USB charging, and personal stowage. The price starts at NZ$495 (€250.45) and includes a “Nestcessities” kit with earplugs and an eye mask.
The pods are a world first, offering a way to lie flat without paying for business class.
As airlines compete for passengers willing to pay a bit more, premium economy is becoming a more attractive option. Whether it’s privacy screens, better food, or a chance to sleep horizontally, the upgrades are designed to make the middle ground feel less like a compromise.
