How to make economy class bearable….
This is the question everyone wants to know, particularly with planes full, seating configurations more cramped and the population getting taller.
Why Premium Economy Isn’t Always the Best Option
Fly Premium Economy you say – well yes that is a great class that I have been advocating for years as I am 6ft 4 or 194 cm.
I have been amazed at how long it has taken airlines to wake up to Premium Economy proposition and now it is the most profitable section of the plane for many airlines.
Why? Because airlines give you about 20% more space and often charge double the price of economy seating.
So, it’s a little expensive but there is a better option, particularly if there are two of you travelling.
The Smarter Alternative
Let’s take a Qantas flight from Perth to London.
Premium Economy one way is $5,337 Australian dollars for May 1st, 2025, so for two passengers $10,674.
However, economy is just $1,763 one way and if you buy a set of three seats the total cost will be $5,289, leaving the middle seat free to give you and your companion plenty of room.
In fact, the cost will be less than that as you do not pay the taxes and charges on the extra seat, although the travel agent or airline will charge a fee to set up the booking of the extra seat.
Qantas calls these requests Personal Comfort Seats.
What You Need to Know Before Booking Extra Seats
Procedures vary from airline to airline but it can be done as airlines must facilitate passengers of size or a precious piece of luggage such as a priceless violin.
The other issue is not all seats are the same and some do not have moveable armrests so you need to talk with the airline or knowledgeable travel agent to ensure that the armrests do go up and out of the way.
So not only do you get plenty of elbow room, you are also able to swing your legs across towards the now vacant seat to get more legroom.
Sure, the meal is economy but you’re $5,000 better off.
So, lets look at United airlines flight from Chicago to Paris on the same date May 1st next year.
Economy standard is $902 while Premium economy is $3,098. For two passengers that is $2,700 for three economy seats and $6,200 for two premium economy seats.
These figures are in Australian dollars but the three economy seats are half the cost in whatever currency you are buying your ticket with.
Final Tip: Work With a Travel Agent
The tip?
Talk to a really good travel agent to guide you through the process and you will have a far more comfortable trip without forking our thousands of extra dollars.
View our video.
