JAL adds a premium economy section; Virgin expands it

Japan Airlines said last week it will be the latest international carrier to expand passenger options with the addition of a premium economy section in its long-haul fleet. The Japanese carrier said it will introduce the new section on its Tokyo-London route in December, followed early next year by Tokyo-Paris and Tokyo-Frankfurt, and then extending it to routes between Japan and the U.S., and on other European routes. The new premium economy section will offer 44 seats in a 2-4-2 configuration on JAL’s 777-300ERs, and 40 seats on 777-200ERs. Perks include seats with 20 percent more room than regular economy, larger tray tables, power outlets, and nine-inch video screens at each seat with updated audio/video-on-demand in-flight entertainment. Premium economy flyers will get free champagne and between-meal snacks and a dedicated check-in counter.

Meanwhile, Virgin Atlantic Airways unveiled plans to expand premium economy seating on its 747s, from the current 32 seats to 62. Virgin began an overhaul of premium economy last year, and recently finished upgrading the sections on its Airbus fleet. The airline said it has seen a 20 percent increase in demands for premium economy seating over the past 10 months. Among the changes in Virgin’s premium economy are new leather seats that are 21 inches wide and offer a 38-inch pitch. Power ports are also offered at each seat.